Global MBA students share perspectives on Artificial Intelligence at the Connect AI Berlin event
On Friday 17 November, three of our Global MBA students, Taylan Efe Tas, Rana Alhindawi, and Ivonne Planas had the honour of representing the Berlin School of Business and Innovation (BSBI) at the Connect AI Berlin: Advancing AI Research and Societal Impact. The event was hosted by the prestigious Max Planck Institute for Human Development.
The Max Planck Institute for Human Development is part of the Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science, one of Europe’s major fundamental research organisations. Since its inception in 1948, it has conducted basic research in the natural sciences, biological sciences, and humanities.
Connect AI Berlin: Advancing AI Research and Societal Impact
The dynamic networking event held at Harnack Haus of the Max Planck Society brought together Berlin’s bright minds to explore the human and social implications of AI. Participants including Dr Sushma Kumari, Psychology Lecturer, at BSBI and three of BSBI’s Global MBA students had the opportunity to experience engaging talks, workshops, and interactive sessions and forge lasting connections with like-minded experts united by the passion for shaping a better tomorrow.
The event’s notable speakers included:
- Prof. Dr. Dorothea Kübler (WZB)
- Prof. Dr. Martin Krzywdzinski (Weizenbaum Institute for the Networked Society and Professor of International Labor Relations at the Helmut Schmidt University in Hamburg)
- Prof. Dr. Anastasia Danilov (Humboldt University / Einstein)
- Prof. Dr. Gerhard Hammerschmid (Professor of Public and Financial Management at the Hertie School.)
- Prof. Dr. Lisa Bruttel (Uni Potsdam)
- Prof. Dr. Eva Wiese (Technische Universität Berlin)
- Prof. Nils Köbis (Max Planck Institute for Human Development), and more.
“Connect AI Berlin,” served as a vital platform, fostering a profound discourse on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its multifaceted implications within society. It created an invaluable opportunity for attendees to engage with esteemed researchers, scholars, and experts in the field, enabling them to deepen their understanding of AI’s societal impact and ethical considerations. Additionally, participants were encouraged to explore interdisciplinary collaborations and innovative concepts, laying the groundwork for future advancements in AI technology.
Global MBA Student Representatives said, “We have gained insightful knowledge in a multitude of fields that were affected by AI research. Most notably, we were surprised by the research done by Professor Anastasia Danilov in 2021 in the United Kingdom. Contrary to what we know, adding AI skills in CVs did not increase callback rates for desired entry positions. This raised the question of whether recruiters perceive AI skills as not relevant in the work environment. Overall, we are very thankful to Professor Kumari for this opportunity.”
Through active participation in an interactive workshop centered around the theme “Advent of LLMs: challenges, chances, and Agenda for Future Research,” our BSBI students engaged in robust discussions, dissecting the potential societal impact of Large Language Models (LLMs). They delved into crucial questions such as the potential for LLMs to drive positive transformations within society, while also critically examining the possibility of the hype around LLMs creating a speculative bubble.
Furthermore, the session encouraged contemplation on the emerging forms of interactions and relationships between humans and machines, often driven by LLMs. Ultimately, the collective aim was to steer the conversation towards fostering positive transformation in the AI landscape, not just in Berlin but also in a global context.
This exposure of Global MBA students to a diverse range of peers is paramount in shaping their career trajectory. Interacting with a diverse cohort allows for a rich exchange of ideas, perspectives, and cultural insights, fostering a deeper understanding of global business practices.
This experience broadens their knowledge base while also improving their adaptability, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, equipping them for the dynamic and ever-changing corporate scene.
“Students must be at the forefront of AI developments. Join the movement!” says Dr Sushma Kumari, Psychology Lecturer at BSBI. “At BSBI, we don’t just teach; we inspire. We empower our students to be at the forefront of industry trends and to connect with institutions that drive change.”