AI is becoming a household term. ChatGPT is quickly becoming an instrument used on a daily basis. Things are moving at a high speed and 91 Crowell School of Business is adapting quickly. The Crowell School of Business understands the need for Christians to stay up to date with the newest trends while also learning how to engage with AI and technology with integrity and discernment.
Biola is paving the way for Christians to engage with AI ethically and with discernment. The AI Venture Studio in Crowell drives growth and positive change through AI projects that stay true to Crowell’s kingdom-focused mission. At the same time, Biola's innovative AI Lab is a hub that brings together experts from across campus to engage and experiment with AI in a way that reflects Christian ethics, human dignity and the image of God. Both spaces are hubs for hands-on learning and entrepreneurial development for Crowell students.
The new Adaptive MBA program Biola is diving into preparing Crowell students to use AI in the workplace and beyond. Part of the program allows students to engage in three to five week AI business sprints, where they will tackle real-world challenges issued by current business leaders. The sprints will give them experience in using artificial intelligence for business innovation.
Dr. Jeff McHugh, chair of the MBA program in the Crowell School of Business, said that the goal of the degree program is to prepare and equip students for career success, and AI education is now an important piece of the solution to make that happen.
“We like our students to learn how to use AI tools, but learning skills like adaptability, resilience and figuring out what other people want in a rapidly changing world will determine their career success,” said McHugh. “Be lifelong learners, and be willing to learn new skills and tools, and to try new things, such as AI.”
Stefan Jungmichel, associate director of the AI Lab at Biola, is dedicated to researching AI developments for Biola and Crowell. This year, he co-author a book titled What Christians Should Know About AI. The book offers a practical and accessible guide to understanding the real-world impact, ethical implications and spiritual significance of artificial intelligence, urging readers to approach its rapid advancement with both discernment and biblical wisdom.
“The AI Lab at Biola has already begun providing presentations to various departments such as art, business, journalism and many more. Because AI is spread across all industries, its applications can be taught in every classroom, therefore it is compulsory that students interact with and learn about AI,” said Jungmichel. “Topics such as AI-driven automation and its potential impacts on various roles have to be thoughtfully explored to foster preparedness, adaptability and ethical grounding among both students and educators.”
The book is available for purchase on Amazon. Learn more about possibilities to engage with AI from a Christian perspective at Biola’s Crowell School of Business and how to adapt with wisdom to today’s fast-paced society by visiting the Adaptive MBA webpage.
Written by Sarah Dougher, media relations specialist. For more information, email media.relations@biola.edu.