Experiential learning is a key priority at the university, and the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics strives to provide students with real-world experiences.

Spring 2025 Project: AI and You – Using AI to Answer Agricultural & Applied Economics Questions

The goal of the project was to simulate a workplace scenario in which a CEO poses a research question, providing students the opportunity to engage with AI. This experience aimed to help students develop the critical skills needed for success in today’s workforce. Below is the case study for this independent study.

The What: How reliable is AI in answering questions in agricultural and applied economics?

The Why: We all face time and knowledge constraints, making AI a powerful tool for saving time and providing answers to many questions, including those in agricultural and applied economics. However, research suggests that AI-generated answers may not always be reliable. This independent study examines the extent to which AI can accurately answer questions in the field of agricultural and applied economics.

The What: The study required students to assess three current and timely questions in agriculture using both AI tools and the knowledge they have obtained through their previous coursework. The three topics the students will investigate will be:

  1. What is the likely impact of the new class of weight loss drugs (e.g., GLP-1) on food consumption patterns, health outcomes, and agricultural and food production?
  2. What are the Ag trade trends with China, and how may new tariff policies affect them?
  3. To what extent do changes in meat production practices affect the environment?

Outcome: By interacting with the professor, industry consultant, and fellow students, and refining prompts through critical thinking and additional research, students iteratively developed and finalized their response to the question.

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  • Name of student
  • Major
  • Question 
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  • Name of student
  • Major
  • Question 
  • Click here to read report  
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  • Name of student
  • Major
  • Question 
  • Click here to read report  

George Davis, Professor, and Greg Estep, Alumnus and Industry Consultant

  • George Davis, Interim Department Head and Professor {LinkedIn}
  • Greg Estep, Board Member / Advisor - Food & Agriculture Industry {LinkedIn}