KOM10 Artificial intelligence for business communication

• Topics

  This course explores how generative AI (GenAI) can be purposefully applied in business communication. You will be introduced to key communication models and core principles of effective business communication. You will gain a foundational understanding of large language models (LLMs) and how these technologies support various communication tasks in business settings.

  A central focus of the course is the co-creation of communication materials with GenAI (AI-assisted communication). You will use a variety of GenAI tools to draft, refine and analyze business communication across various genres and platforms.

  Throughout the course, we will explore:

  • The appropriateness, accuracy and reliability of AI-generated content.
  • The role of human agency and decision-making in AI-assisted communication.
  • Ethical considerations in using GenAI for business communication.

  By the end of the course, you will be equipped with skills needed to use GenAI tools responsibly and effectively in professional communication contexts.

• Learning outcome

  Knowledge

  Upon completion of the course, you will have gained knowledge about:

  • key models and principles of written and spoken business communication.
  • the basic functioning of large language models (LLMs) and their relevance to communication tasks, as well as their limitations.
  • ethical challenges and considerations related to the use of GenAI in business communication contexts.
  • the role of human agency in AI-assisted communication processes.

  Skills

  Upon completion of the course, you will be able to:

  • apply GenAI tools to draft, revise, and analyze business communication materials such as stakeholder communication, business reports and business presentations.
  • evaluate the appropriateness, accuracy and reliability of AI-generated content.
  • integrate GenAI effectively into communication workflows while maintaining professional standards.
  • reflect critically on the role of AI in shaping communication processes.

  General competence

  Upon completion of the course, you will have the ability to:

  • collaborate effectively in groups.
  • provide and receive constructive feedback.
  • assess an audience and adapt messages to an audience.
  • critically assess information from different sources.
  • reflect on your own learning and development.

• Teaching

  KOM10 is a course where communication and interaction are in focus. The teaching will consist of introductions to relevant topics and case activities related to written and spoken business communication tasks. Participation in case activities during class hours will prepare you for the elements in the exam portfolio.

  The teaching will be organized into blocks. This format involves fewer sessions spread out over time, with longer and more focused classes during each session. For further details, please consult the course schedule.

  In week 10, the course will be joined by students from the University of Michigan - Ross School of Business.You will get the chance to explore how AI is transforming communication in global business, collaborate across borders, and expand your network.

• Credit reduction due to overlap

  KOM10 cannot be combined with KOM11.

• Compulsory Activity

  One group presentation. The groups will consist of 3-4 students, and the presentations must be completed at the end of week 10.

  The mandatory activity (work requirement) is only valid in the semester in which it was obtained.

• Assessment

  A portfolio consisting of the following assignments:

  1. One filmed business presentation (individual assignment)

  2. One filmed business meeting activity (group assignment; groups of 4 to 6 students)

  3. One business report (individual assignment)

  4. One personal learning reflections (individual assignment)

  All parts of the portfolio must be submitted in the same semester.

• Grading Scale

  A-F

• Computer tools

  The course requires the use of various GenAI tools beyond those provided by NHH such as MS Copilot and SIKT KI Chat. During the semester, you may need to create user accounts for additional tools to complete in-class activities, the compulsory assignment and the exam tasks.

• Literature

  Noy, S., & Zhang, W. (2023). Experimental evidence on the productivity effects of generative artificial intelligence [Article]. Science, 381(6654), 187-192. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.adh2586

  Coman, A. W., & Cardon, P. (2024). Perceptions of Professionalism and Authenticity in AI-Assisted Writing [Article]. Business and Professional Communication Quarterly. https://doi.org/10.1177/23294906241233224

  Hancock, J. T., Naaman, M., & Levy, K. (2020). AI-Mediated Communication: Definition, Research Agenda, and Ethical Considerations. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 25(1), 89-100. https://doi.org/10.1093/jcmc/zmz022

  Mieczkowski, H., Hancock, J. T., Naaman, M., Jung, M., & Hohenstein, J. (2021). AI-Mediated Communication: Language Use and Interpersonal Effects in a Referential Communication Task [Article]. Proceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction, 5(CSCW1), Article 3449091. https://doi.org/10.1145/3449091

• Retake

  Retake in KOM10 will not be offered during the non-teaching semester (autumn). Only mandatory bachelor courses with an individual assessment will have a retake assessment in the non-teaching semester.

  For detailed information regarding the retake policy, please visit our website: https://www.nhh.no/en/for-students/examinations/retake-of-exams/https://www.nhh.no/en/for-students/examinations/retake-of-exams/ (copy url).