The use of generative AI in statistical data analysis and its impact on teaching statistics at universities of applied sciences

This study explores the use of generative AI, specifically ChatGPT, in statistical data analysis and its implications for statistics education at universities of applied sciences. This paper begins with first discussing the future division of labor between humans and machines in the context of statistical data analyses following the widespread adoption of ChatGPT. By analyzing artificially generated data sets, the capabilities and limitations of ChatGPT in performing statistical analyses are demonstrated. The results show that generative AI can facilitate data analysis for individuals with minimal knowledge of statistics, mainly by generating appropriate code, but only partly by following standard procedures. Therefore, human oversight and a good statistical knowledge remains critical. The study suggests that the focus of statistics education should shift from teaching software‐specific skills to fostering a deeper understanding of statistical concepts. This shift will prepare students to effectively use AI tools while maintaining rigorous standards of data analysis.