AEA Papers and Proceedings
ISSN 2574-0768 (Print) | ISSN 2574-0776 (Online)
The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Undergraduate Economics Courses
AEA Papers and Proceedings
(pp. 686–691)
Abstract
Using data from the 2025 national quinquennial “Chalk and Talk” survey, we examine how instructor, departmental, and institutional characteristics affect instructors’ use of AI in teaching and stances on student use of AI tools in four types of undergraduate economics courses. We also identify themes in instructors’ AI-related decisions using open-ended question responses. Findings suggest significant differences in AI integration and openness to student AI use by experience and institutional type, along with diverse perspectives on AI adoption. This work provides an empirical foundation for tracking trends in AI use and shaping discussions on its role in undergraduate economics education.Citation
Ahlstrom, Laura J., Carlos J. Asarta, and Cynthia Harter. 2026. "The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Undergraduate Economics Courses." AEA Papers and Proceedings 116: 686–691. DOI: 10.1257/pandp.20261057Additional Materials
JEL Classification
- A22 Economic Education and Teaching of Economics: Undergraduate
- C45 Neural Networks and Related Topics
- I23 Higher Education; Research Institutions