Dr. Justin DeSimone
University of Alabama

Session abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) offers myriad opportunities to enhance the research process. To get as much out of AI as possible, researchers must develop an understanding of the capabilities of AI but should also be aware of critical limitations. This workshop will address five areas researchers should consider when exploring the potential for AI to assist with research and analysis: (1) recognizing potential errors and limitations in AI-generated outputs, (2) using AI to generate and refine research ideas, (3) developing research design and measurement using AI, (4) applying AI’s capabilities to data analysis and interpretation, and (5) writing alongside AI. Across the workshop, particular attention will be given to how AI can support (rather than replace) researchers’ critical evaluation skills. Following the lecture, participants will have the opportunity to apply these concepts through a set of hands-on exercises inspired by each of the five topic areas. Participants should come away from this workshop with an improved sense of how AI can assist the research and data analysis process along with practical strategies for critically evaluating AI-generated output. At the end of this workshop, participants should be more comfortable integrating AI into their organizational research endeavors.

Presenter biography

Justin A. DeSimone is an associate professor in the Department of Management at the University of Alabama. His research focuses on research methodology, including statistics, measurement, and innovative assessment techniques. Justin’s work has been published in various outlets including Organizational Research Methods, the Journal of Management, and the Journal of Applied Psychology. He has served as an associate editor for Organizational Research Methods and the Journal of Organizational Behavior as well as on the editorial review boards for the Journal of Management and Journal of Business and Psychology. Justin has also served on the executive committee for the Research Methods Division at Academy of Management and is a frequent contributor to CARMA.