Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies Boosts Future Skills for Economics Students Through Data Visualization and AI Tools Training.
The Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Khon Kaen University, organized the "Academic Knowledge and Skills Promotion Project for the Advancement of the Economics Profession" on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Computer Laboratory, Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Khon Kaen University. The project aims to develop students' potential to be well-prepared for the changing future of work, while strengthening essential skills in data analysis, digital technology, and artificial intelligence for application in academic study, research, and professional practice in the field of economics.
This project was organized under the concept of developing students' Future Skills, emphasizing teaching and learning approaches that integrate economic knowledge with modern technology. This was achieved through the integration of two courses within the International Economics, Innovation, and Sustainability curriculum, namely Industrial Innovation Economics and Production and Technology Economics, which are under the supervision of Associate Professor Dr. Nattanin Uasin and Assistant Professor Dr. Mallika Somponklang.
The training activity was honored by Assistant Professor Dr. Saranya Kanjarak, who served as the speaker sharing knowledge and experience on two key topics: "Data Visualization & Dashboard Building with Data Studio for Economists" and "AI Tools for Economic Research and Education," opening students' perspectives on applying digital technology to economics in a concrete and practical manner.
For the topic Data Visualization & Dashboard Building with Data Studio for Economists, students learned concepts related to managing and presenting economic data in easily understandable formats, communicating complex data through graphs, charts, and dashboards, as well as designing data presentation formats appropriate to specific objectives and target audiences. This is considered an essential skill for economists in an era where decision-making in both the public and private sectors must be grounded in data.
Meanwhile, the training on AI Tools for Economic Research and Education aimed to help students understand approaches to using artificial intelligence tools to support the learning and research process in economics — ranging from information retrieval and synthesis, assistance in analyzing economic issues, and organizing ideas, to applying AI technology to enhance work efficiency. This was accompanied by an emphasis on data accuracy, source verification, and the appropriate and responsible use of technology.
Beyond technical knowledge, the activity also helped foster students' analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, effective data communication skills, and the capacity to adapt to new tools and technologies — all of which are essential competencies that modern economists must possess in order to connect academic knowledge with real-world situations and apply it effectively in professional practice.
This project represents another significant approach by the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Khon Kaen University, in developing teaching and learning methods that align with technological changes and labor market demands. It provides students with opportunities to learn through hands-on practice alongside the development of economic knowledge, preparing them to become future economists capable of using data, technology, and innovation as tools for analyzing and driving economic and social development going forward.