AI Marketing Back to School, Back to AI: Amnesty for Students and Workers?
Sep 11, 2025
In a fascinating discussion, Nick Cawthon, a Design and UX leader and educator, explores the shifting perception of AI in education and the workplace. He likens the current fears around AI to the earlier resistance to calculators in classrooms, advocating for an 'AI amnesty' that encourages creativity and collaboration. Nick discusses the need for human-centered design in an algorithm-driven world and how embracing AI can unlock new levels of creativity. He also highlights the barriers to AI adoption within companies and the importance of upskilling for a future where AI partners are the norm.
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Early Flow State That Shaped A Career
- Nick Cawthon describes a childhood Cub Scouts drawing that put him in a creative flow state for 15–20 minutes.
- That early experience shaped his career path toward visual arts and design.
AI Is Today’s Calculator Debate
- Nick compares AI in classrooms to the calculator controversy and highlights the need to 'show your work' when using tools.
- He argues workplaces must create mentoring and amnesty so everyone can learn generative tools together.
Create Amnesty And Mentoring Programs
- Establish amnesty and mentoring so employees can experiment with AI without fear.
- Share outputs and processes openly to help teams upskill together.
