In ISOM 2013, students still learn Word, Excel, and PowerPoint—but AI lets them focus on thinking, not typing.
Rethinking the “Productivity” Course
For years, I taught ISOM 2013 the traditional way: students formatted reports, organized data, and built slide decks. The skills were useful—but the work was often mechanical. When students summarized annual reports, they practiced formatting and analysis, but most of their effort went into restating existing information. They weren’t really learning to think with the tools.
Letting AI Create—and Explain—the Starting Point
Now, instead of copying from company reports, students use AI tools to generate realistic business data and summaries—mock financial statements, marketing briefs, or company profiles. Then, as they format and analyze that content, they also use AI as a personal tutor to fill knowledge gaps.
If they don’t understand a formula in Excel, they ask AI to walk them through it. If they forget a formatting step in Word or can’t remember how to build a chart in PowerPoint, AI gives them step-by-step guidance right when they need it. They’re still mastering Word, Excel, and PowerPoint—but in a way that’s dynamic and self-directed, just like real workplace learning.
The Focus Shifts to Thinking and Application
AI now serves two roles in the course: generator and guide. It helps students start with meaningful material, and it helps them troubleshoot and understand complex steps along the way. Instead of spending time on busywork, students are verifying information, checking for accuracy, and applying their own judgment. They learn how to use AI responsibly—to accelerate their learning without skipping the thinking.
Designing for Real-World Work
At LX Studio, this is exactly the kind of transformation we help other educators achieve. When AI handles the routine and explains the unfamiliar, students can focus on creativity, accuracy, and insight—the very things AI can’t automate.
That’s how we move from practice to performance—and from busywork to meaningful learning.
Interested in creating courses that prepare learners for how technology is actually used in the workplace?
Contact the LX Studio team today to explore how our research-driven approach can help you redesign learning for creativity, integrity, and real-world performance.
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