402: A Curious Conversation About AI with Julian Stodd
Mar 26, 2024
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Join guest Julian Stodd in a thought-provoking discussion on generative AI, exploring its philosophical depth and societal implications. Discover insights on working out loud, embracing failure, and the impact of AI on knowledge creation. Dive into 'Engines of Engagement' to explore the intersection of AI and learning science, sparking debates on societal and organizational impacts. Uncover how AI enhances learning experiences and supports lifelong learning, while maintaining authenticity in the writing process.
Approach AI with curiosity and avoid polarized opinions.
Embrace mistakes as part of growth, learning from being wrong publicly.
Deep dives
Julian Stod and the Engine of Curiosity in AI
Julian Stod, a researcher, artist, and author, delves into the curious realm of generative artificial intelligence in his book 'Engines of Engagement.' Stod emphasizes the need to approach AI with curiosity, steering away from polarized opinions. He discusses the value of 'working out loud' as a means of testing ideas, engaging with the community, and generating knowledge. Through his experience with the process, he highlights the importance of embracing the potential for growth and learning from being wrong publicly.
The Evolution of Abstractions and Learning Experiences
Stod delves into the significance of being wrong as part of the scientific process and the development of ideas. He emphasizes the role of abstractions in understanding concepts like social leadership and collaborative learning. Stod reflects on his writing experiences, highlighting the journey from failed attempts to the poetic culmination of ideas. He underscores the iterative nature of learning and the value of embracing mistakes as a fundamental aspect of growth.
Impacts of Generative AI on Learning and Systems
Stod explores the potential impact of generative AI on learning science and organizational systems. He discusses how AI can enhance efficiency within existing systems, fracture traditional structures by abstracting certain elements, and create emergent capabilities beyond current conceptions. Stod highlights historical shifts driven by technological advancements and societal changes, emphasizing the need for organizations to adapt to the evolving landscape.
Navigating Generative AI and Expert Generalists
Stod introduces the concept of expert generalists and their potential partnership with generative AI. He discusses the value of combining deep expertise with generalist capabilities, highlighting the importance of metacognitive processes and learning strategies. Stod encourages individuals to experiment with the use of generative AI tools in small group settings to explore new approaches, foster dialogue, and enhance learning experiences.
If anything, we should all be able to agree that generative artificial intelligence is a curious thing, worthy of reflection and exploration.
Julian Stodd is a researcher, an artist, an explorer, a writer, and captain and founder of Sea Salt Learning, which helps organizations set strategy and change direction. He is also a firm believer in working out loud and a previous Leading Learning Podcast guest.
In this episode, co-host Celisa Steele talks with Julian about ideas from Engines of Engagement: A Curious Book About Generative AI, which he co-wrote with Sae Schatz and Geoff Stead. Julian’s perspective on AI is both technical and philosophical, specific and expansive, and, of course, curious.