THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN FORMING ECONOMIC THINKING

Abstract

Abstract This article explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the development of economic thinking among first-year higher education students. Traditional pedagogical approaches often face challenges such as reproductive learning (rote memorization), a gap between theoretical concepts and practical application, and low visual-graphic literacy. Drawing on recent educational reforms in Uzbekistan, specifically Presidential Decree No. PQ-358 on AI development, the study analyzes the integration of generative AI tools like ChatGPT and GENT AI as innovative pedagogical instruments. The research highlights how AI facilitates the simplification of complex economic categories (e.g., GDP, inflation, market equilibrium) through data-driven insights, visualization, and the creation of personalized learning trajectories. Furthermore, the article emphasizes the importance of "prompt engineering" and "fact-checking" skills to mitigate risks such as academic dishonesty, over-dependence on technology, and informational "hallucinations". The findings suggest that when combined with interactive methods like case studies and SWOT analysis, AI acts as an analytical partner that fosters critical thinking and enhances the competitiveness of future economists.