Brief description

In this seminar we will use Generative AI tools (GenAI for short, in particular Large Language Models such as ChatGPT, Claude and others) to support the research process. We will discuss what contribution GenAI can make in the different phases of a research project, which (especially ethical and practical) problems arise and how these can be addressed.

After an introduction, we will replicate an already published economic study based on publicly available data with the support of GenAI. Participants will then use GenAI to conduct their own research projects. They will use GenAI tools to review literature, identify research gaps, formulate research questions, identify suitable data sets and then analyse them using R, Python, STATA or other statistical software (also supported by GenAI). The focus of this seminar is therefore on quantitative research.

Of course, participants will receive support from us for their research projects. Participants will regularly submit one-pagers in which they reflect on the use of GenAI and document current progress in their seminar papers. We will provide feedback on this and before the final submission of the seminar papers, they will be presented and discussed in a presentation.

The preparation of projects in group work is possible and encouraged.

Learning objectives

Students will be able to critically scrutinise the use of modern generative AI tools and evaluate them against the background of good scientific practice. The focus here is on the transparent and comprehensible communication of the use of these tools in science. Furthermore, students should be able to evaluate the benefits and limitations of individual tools in the respective phases of the research process. This should enable students to take a reflective and critical approach to GenAI.

Enrolment

This seminar is aimed at Master's students. Enrolment via Studilöwe until 09.09.2025. Maximum number of participants 24 students.

The seminar language is German. If you are English speaking, you may still participate, but please note most of the seminar content (including slides) will be in German. Your submissions may be in English.

Creditable for the courses

• Economics of Innovation
• Experimental Economics
• The creditability for other modules is currently being clarified and will be announced.