Although the development of artificial intelligence means different things for each sector, its reflection on human resources and how companies view this process is one of the most fundamental topics of discussion. We talked to Prof. Dr. Berrin Yanıkoğlu from Sabancı University about the evolution of artificial intelligence in the next decade and its impact on business, education, and ethics. While Yanıkoğlu believes that artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionize every sector, she states that companies should support employees in developing their qualifications in the field and adopt soft transition strategies to increase the role of employees in this revolution.
Revolution in all industries
According to Yanıkoğlu, artificial intelligence will affect every sector in the next 5 to 10 years and this interaction will create a tangible change in our lives. Artificial intelligence will find applications in a wide range of fields, from industry to health, from art to security. It has the potential to optimize business processes and create new opportunities, especially in many sectors from automotive to retail. “Artificial intelligence can be the key to innovation, but every sector must embrace and adapt to this technology,” says Yanıkoğlu.
Balancing employment with artificial intelligence
In terms of job creation and displacement, Yanıkoğlu notes that while AI can bring creativity to the forefront, it can also jeopardize some traditional professions. However, he emphasizes that with the right strategies, this change can be managed in a more balanced way. For example, aligning the workforce with AI through training and transformation programs can make the transition smoother and fairer. Yanıkoğlu also highlights the importance of training programs that focus on skills compatible with new technologies.
Strengthening human capabilities at work
In terms of how artificial intelligence is enhancing human capabilities in the workplace, Yanıkoğlu highlighted developments in software engineering in particular. Artificial intelligence that generates software code allows professionals to focus on more complex tasks, enabling a greater emphasis on human creativity. This may allow engineers and designers to take on more innovative and strategic roles. At this point, he emphasized the importance of companies providing their employees with skills compatible with artificial intelligence by offering continuous training and development opportunities.
Soft transition strategies
Evaluating the measures taken to reduce unemployment concerns and prepare the workforce for the use of AI, Yanıkoğlu emphasized the importance of a slower and controlled transition to AI, as well as education and awareness programs. In this process, collaboration between industry leaders, governments and educational institutions can play a critical role in successfully managing this transition. He also called for collaboration with industry representatives to ensure that the workforce adapts to the needs of various sectors.
The impact of artificial intelligence in education
Focusing on the changes in education, Yanıkoğlu shared his thoughts on how student essays can be written by AI and how AI-generated content can transform traditional education methods. In this context, he stated that educators and students should focus on the adaptation process. Next-generation educational materials and interactive learning tools can enable students to grow effectively in the age of artificial intelligence. In addition, according to Yanıkoğlu, students should be provided with opportunities to develop critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills rather than simply consuming information.
Ethical dilemmas and artificial intelligence
Drawing attention to ethical issues, Yanıkoğlu brought up the concept of “trusted AI” and emphasized the importance of responsibility, explainability and regulations in this field. He stated that there is a need for government regulations to regulate the responsibilities of autonomous vehicles and health applications. He stated that standards should be established to increase the reliability of AI’s decisions and ensure transparency.
