TLDR: Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Stout are actively exploring the practical applications of artificial intelligence in both instructional design and business technology. Led by Assistant Professor Cami Banger, the university is integrating generative AI into curriculum development, focusing on ethical use and preparing students for an AI-driven workforce. This initiative is part of UW-Stout’s comprehensive approach to AI, aiming to equip students with hands-on experience and a deep understanding of AI’s impact.
The University of Wisconsin-Stout is at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence into both academic instruction and business practices, with researchers delving into the practical applications and ethical considerations of this rapidly evolving technology. This initiative is part of the university’s ‘360-degree approach’ to AI, which aims to embed AI skills across all academic programs and prepare students for future careers in an AI-driven world.
Central to this effort is Assistant Professor Cami Banger, program director of business information technology and digital marketing technology at UW-Stout. Her research specifically investigates the application of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) for instructors and its implementation within higher education and business technology. Professor Banger’s study, titled ‘Reimagining Assignment Design: An Exploratory Study of AI-Assisted TILT Implementation,’ explores how GenAI can be utilized to ensure assignments align with the Transparency in Learning and Teaching (TILT) framework. The goal is to enhance clarity, improve grading efficiency, and ultimately boost student learning outcomes, making education more accessible and effective.
Professor Banger emphasizes the critical need for understanding and effectively utilizing AI. She stated, ‘Part of the exploration, and this [might be] the same for businesses, is figuring out how to use it or what they can use it for to solve a business need.’ She also highlighted that ‘Understanding and effectively utilizing AI technologies in various organizational contexts is crucial for future success.’ Her work extends to teaching a professional development course, ‘AI Implementation Strategy,’ where students learn to design AI strategies. Furthermore, she has designed a business technology class that incorporates AI, including piloting CoPilot for Business and conducting CRM case simulations with Salesforce using GenAI support. These projects, as Banger explains, ‘collectively aim to equip students with hands-on experience and an applied understanding of AI in business and technology contexts, which aligns closely with Stout’s polytechnic mission.’
The university’s commitment to AI is underscored by recent data. A 2025 McKinsey Global Survey on AI revealed that 78 percent of respondents reported their organization uses AI in at least one business function, reinforcing the urgency for educational institutions to adapt. UW-Stout’s approach also includes a strong focus on the governance and ethical use of AI. Professor Banger noted, ‘We’re trying to put a really good governance, framework and policies around this and help industry partners that are out there interested in furthering knowledge and work with these types of tools.’
Beyond Professor Banger’s work, other faculty members are also contributing to AI research. Assistant Professor Augustine Twumasi is developing intelligent systems that leverage machine learning, optimization, and physics-based modeling to tackle complex engineering challenges, such as improving robot path planning. Associate Professor Justin Nicholes has examined student perceptions of human versus generative-AI-produced poetry, adding another dimension to the interdisciplinary exploration of AI.
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UW-Stout’s AI Fellows and AI Innovation Committee play a crucial role in coordinating these efforts, overseeing AI integration, governance, ethics, and literacy across campus. These initiatives are supported by workforce development funding for 2023-25, solidifying UW-Stout’s position as a leader in applied AI education and innovation.
