Generative AI Workshop

Description

In discussion teams, students will investigate the usefulness of Generative AI tools in audit and advisory contexts through an open-ended case study. The focus is on identifying a use-case and the practical applications of these technologies for a specific use-case. Each discussion team will research and present their findings on how Generative AI can enhance a specific selected task common to audit and advisory work. Additionally, students will practice providing constructive feedback to their peers on the presentations, fostering a collaborative learning environment. This workshop aims to deepen students' understanding of Generative AI's potential impact on the accounting profession while honing their research and communication skills.

Motivation

Generative AI promotes innovative thinking and problem-solving in accounting, audit, and advisory contexts. By exploring real-world applications through case studies, students will develop practical skills in leveraging AI tools to enhance their analytical capabilities. This hands-on experience prepares students to navigate the evolving landscape of accounting technology, fostering adaptability and creativity essential for future professionals in the field.

Review

This class builds upon the earlier Generative AI introduction class, where students were introduced to the capabilities of Large Language Models (LLMs) like GPT in data analytics. In that session, students used GPTs to generate data and code. This workshop takes those foundational skills further by applying them in an open-ended case-based setting, allowing students to explore how Generative AI can be utilized in specific audit and advisory roles. By engaging in team-based discussions and presentations, students will deepen their understanding of AI applications in accounting contexts, reinforcing their ability to critically assess and implement these technologies in real-world scenarios.

Preparation

• There is no required preparation for this class. The case material is under a page and can be read at the beginning of class.
• Note that we will be preparing a modified version of this case that has been shortened considerably for in-class use.

Class plan

• We will briefly review our prior Generative AI materials, then begin working on the case in discussion teams.
• There are two goals for this class, first is to use Generative AI to explore an open ended case study to research and present how these tools can be applied in a specific audit and advisory setting role (a discussion team-based in-class deliverable).
• The second goal is to practice providing feedback to your peers (an individual online form deliverable using the link).
• To meet these goals each discussion team will work on the case study, using Generative AI tools to research and prepare a brief presentation on how Generative AI can be applied in the specified audit/advisory role in the first 3/4 of the class.
• Each discussion team will then present their findings for 2-3 mins to the class in the remaining time, during which each individual not in that discussion team will provide an assessment of the presentations using the provided link.

Team format

discussion teams

Tools

• Generative AI
• Any software of your choice
• Git and GitHub

Concepts

• AI assistants in accounting, audit, and advisory settings