Stephen Kosslyn, a former Harvard professor and dean, now leads AI-driven educational startups. He discusses the transformative potential of AI in learning, emphasizing 'learning by using' for better retention and creative application. Kosslyn explains how AI acts as a cognitive amplifier but notes its limitations in handling complex, open-ended problems. He also highlights the enduring importance of the humanities, offering insights from his upcoming book on flourishing in the age of AI, where human creativity and technology intersect in education.
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AI as a Cognitive Amplifier
Consider AI as a cognitive amplifier, boosting existing strengths and compensating for weaknesses.
Don't view AI as a collaborator with its own goals; instead, use it strategically to enhance your cognitive abilities.
insights INSIGHT
Active Learning: Using, Not Doing
Active learning is learning by using material to achieve a goal, not just learning by doing.
Using material actively, like in debates or problem-solving, leads to better retention and creative application than passive learning.
insights INSIGHT
Passive Learning's Ineffectiveness
Passive learning often fails to create lasting knowledge.
Information may pass through temporarily, but active use is crucial for retention and application in open-ended situations.
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First published in 1936, 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' by Dale Carnegie is a timeless guide to improving interpersonal skills. The book is divided into four main sections: Six Ways to Make People Like You, Twelve Ways to Win People to Your Way of Thinking, and Nine Ways to Change People Without Giving Offense or Arousing Resentment. Carnegie's principles emphasize the importance of genuine interest in others, active listening, and avoiding criticism and argument. The book offers practical advice on how to build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and influence others by aligning their self-interest with yours. It has been a cornerstone of personal development and business success for generations[2][3][5].
Me, My Customer, and AI
Henrik Werdelin
Nicholas Thorne
In this episode, Stephen Kosslyn—former Harvard professor and leading voice in cognitive science—shares how AI is reshaping the way we learn. He explains why “learning by using” leads to deeper understanding, and how AI can amplify memory, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving.
Kosslyn also explores where AI still falls short, the enduring power of the humanities, and what it takes to truly flourish in the age of intelligent tools. Drawing from his decades of research and his upcoming book Learning to Flourish in the Age of AI, this episode offers a powerful look at the future of education.
00:00 Introduction to Stephen Kosslyn and His Career 01:01 Active Learning 02:08 Retention in Learning 03:40 AI's Impact on Learning 04:18 Early AI Experiences 09:56 Cognitive Amplifier Loop 15:09 AI in Learning: Challenges & Potential 23:18 AI Personalization Complexity 28:45 Transfer Problem in Learning 30:55 Problem-Solving & Cognitive Limits 31:58 Evolutionary Learning & AI in Creativity 35:45 AI Context Switching Challenges 37:34 Student Motivation 39:50 Innovative Teaching Methods 42:22 Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation 54:11 Humanities in Learning 55:36 Final Thoughts & Reflections
Beyond The Prompt - How to use AI in your company 
