Behind The Tech with Kevin Scott

Ethan Mollick, Author and Associate Professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania

Jun 11, 2024

Ethan Mollick, Wharton professor, discusses the transformative potential of AI, the evolution of personal computing in the '80s, and the accessibility of technology for non-coders. They also explore entrepreneurial opportunities in tech shifts, regulating emerging technologies, and the future of education with innovative teaching methods like MOOCs.

58:43

Creator website

Episode guests

Ethan Mollick

AI Summary

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Transitioning with technology is vital as old practices fade, making room for new possibilities.

AI's impact on work and education is profound, demanding innovative learning approaches.

Balancing AI's potential with regulatory concerns is key to maximizing benefits while minimizing risks.

Deep dives

Transformation and Adaptation in Technology

Embracing transitions in technology is crucial for success as some valuable practices become obsolete while new, previously impossible endeavors are now achievable. Exploring the transformative AI revolution, individuals like Ethan Mollick exemplify the passion and foresight required to navigate the tech landscape.

Navigating the Crisis Between Understanding and Artificial Intelligence

01:40

Technological Shifts Driven by Accessibility and Usability

01:49

Embrace Imagination and Agency in the Face of Disruption

01:45

Regulation and Flexibility in AI Development

01:07

Intro

2min

Exploring Ethan Mollick's Tech Journey from Childhood to Academia

2min

The Evolution of Personal Computing and Community Building in the 80s

2min

Evolution of Technology and Accessibility through AI

13min

Entrepreneurial Opportunities in Technological Shifts and Emphasizing Innovation for Future Success

20min

Regulating Emerging Technologies: Lessons from History

4min

The Future of Education and Technology in Transforming Learning

15min

Ethan Mollick is an associate professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he teaches innovation and entrepreneurship. His research focuses on the impact of AI on work and education, and he has published numerous papers and a New York Times-bestselling book on AI, "Co-Intelligence." Ethan is also behind the popular Substack ”One Useful Thing,” which explores the implications of AI for work, education, and life.

In this episode, Kevin and Ethan discuss Ethan’s background as a long-time technology enthusiast, his academic journey, and his insights on the current AI revolution. Ethan shares his experiences from running a bulletin board in the '80s to co-founding a startup company before entering academia, and the two discuss topics from the transformative potential of AI and its accessibility to a broader audience to the importance of AI as a co-intelligence tool that can enhance human capabilities.

Ethan Mollick | Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania | Co-Intelligence

Kevin Scott 

Behind the Tech with Kevin Scott 

Discover and listen to other Microsoft podcasts.  