AI is revolutionizing the world of work: opportunities and challenges in focus!

AI is revolutionizing the world of work: opportunities and challenges in focus!

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a crucial factor in the modern world of work. In a current report, the Faculty of Economics and Society at the University of Witten/Herdecke (UW/H) examines the question of how AI is changing the demands on workers. The findings of the University of Witten/Herdecke show that despite all technological advances, human skills are still essential.

A study by the Oxford Internet Institute highlights that AI is not capable of completely replacing human workers. Creative problem solving, critical thinking and emotional intelligence prove to be indispensable skills, especially in complex religious, political and scientific areas. These skills are actively promoted in the UW/H management degree programs. Students learn how to design innovative business models by applying methods such as design thinking and innovation management.

Education for the digital future

In today's business world, it is vital that future leaders are prepared for the challenges of digital transformation. The students at the UW/H actively deal with the demands that AI and digital tools place on society. Projects with real companies such as Katjes and Bitburger offer students the opportunity to develop solutions for current social challenges.

An example of the success of this practice-oriented training is a project in which the students developed a new brand positioning for a catering supplier. This led to a significant increase in sales. While their critical thinking skills are sharpened, emotional intelligence is also highlighted by practicing empathetic communication and leadership skills.

The influence of AI on cognitive abilities

In addition to educational institutions, a new analysis by Michael Gerlich from SBS Swiss Business School examines the impact AI tools have on cognitive processes. The study, published on January 3, 2025, shows a worrying connection between the use of AI tools and the decline in critical thinking skills. Younger users in particular show a greater dependence on these technologies, which has a negative impact on their ability to analyze. Gerlich warns that, in the long term, this cognitive sluggishness could reduce the ability to do deep analysis.

The results of the study provide valuable insights that are important not only for the education system, but also for decision-makers in technology policy. There is increasing emphasis on the need to promote critical thinking in order to survive in a future dominated by AI.

The contradictory effects of AI on the labor market

While some forecasts point to comprehensive changes in job profiles, there are also voices that emphasize that AI will only be introduced gradually into companies for the time being. According to a report by the Federal Agency for Civic Education Current studies show that only 6% of companies in Germany used AI by 2019. AI systems are mostly used in areas such as data processing, customer support and even in the construction industry.

The variance in forecasts about the influence of AI on the labor market can be interpreted in different ways. Studies show that up to 47-56% of work tasks could be influenced by language models like ChatGPT. The challenges that arise from this are diverse. AI can both create new jobs and threaten existing jobs.

In conclusion, AI will undoubtedly bring about a profound change in the world of work. The balance between the opportunities that AI can offer and the risks it poses is crucial. There is a need to responsibly regulate these technologies and the associated challenges in order to achieve harmonious interaction between humans and machines.