Jiaoping Chen is an incoming Assistant Professor of Information Systems at the Merrick School of Business at the University of Baltimore. She is completing her Ph.D. in Information Technology Management at Michigan State University, where she also earned an M.S. in Statistics. Her research explores Generative AI and creativity, AI ethics, and the societal impact of technology, utilizing methods such as Natural Language Processing, Machine Learning, and Econometrics.
Dr. Chen's work has working papers on topics like the impact of AI on creativity and AI ethics. She has presented at numerous conferences, including the Conference on Information Systems and Technology (CIST) and the INFORMS Annual Meeting. She has taught courses in analytics and network analytics and has been recognized with awards such as the Ph.D. Student Excellence in Teaching Award.
Q: What drew you to the University of Baltimore and how do you see yourself contributing to the field of information systems through research?
A: I was truly impressed by the welcoming and vibrant atmosphere at the University of Baltimore, where every faculty and staff I encountered was genuinely caring, supportive, and encouraging. I see myself contributing to the field of information systems by conducting research that bridges cutting-edge technologies (i.e., AI) with practical applications, and creating innovative solutions that enhance decision-making.
Q: Beyond the technical aspects, what ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI in creative processes do you think are most important for your students to grasp?
A: AI is moving fast, but creativity is still one of the things that makes us truly human, because it comes from our imagination and lived experiences. Even when we use AI, the creative spark still starts with us, so it is important to recognize authorship and give credit where it comes from. At the same time, we need to stay mindful of bias and make sure the work we create with AI, whether that is a summary, a video, or anything else, is fair and inclusive.
Q: How do you make complex topics like Generative AI, AI ethics, and the societal impact of technology, easy and interesting for new students to learn?
A: Topics like Generative AI and AI ethics can feel overwhelming at first, but students get easier once students understand the logic behind them and learn how to ask the right questions to keep learning on their own. I like to make it hands-on in class, showing how I approach problems and use different tools. So, students can see the process in action. Once they know what questions to ask, they gain the confidence to explore and solve challenges with AI on their own.
Q: What practical steps can business professionals take to responsibly integrate AI into their strategies for fostering creativity and innovation?
A: Before bringing AI into your business, it is important to be clear about your goals and the context you’re working in. Think of AI as a partner, not a replacement, it can help spark ideas, encourage experimentation, and save costs along the way. Second, keep an open mind. Different AI tools work in different ways, and sometimes the best results come from using them together. Lastly, be careful. AI isn’t perfect. It can be biased or even make things up, as seen in tools like ChatGPT and Gemini. So, while AI can be a great resource for creativity and innovation, it is still important to double-check anything uncertain and rely on professional judgment before making business decisions.
Q: What has surprised you about the city of Baltimore?
A: What surprised me most about Baltimore is the history and creativity among the neighborhoods! I really love the mix of museums, vibrant arts, and incredible seafood!
Take Five is a Q&A series that spotlights the heart of the Merrick School of Business: our people. In just five questions and five answers, you'll discover what makes our community truly special.
