Guest James Landay is an expert in human-centered artificial intelligence, a field all about optimizing technology for human and societal good. Landay says one of the most promising intersections is in education and AI, where the technology excels as a coaching and tutoring tool. His Smart Primer and Acorn apps use augmented reality and AI to engage children in outdoor, hands-on environmental science, and his GPT Coach is an AI-powered fitness planning tool. When it comes to AI and education, things are wide open and only just getting started, Landay tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Russ Altman introduces guest James Landay, a professor of computer science at Stanford University.
(00:02:04) Evolving AI Applications
How large language models can replicate personal coaching experiences.
(00:06:44) Role of Health Experts in AI
Integrating insights from medical professionals into AI coaching systems.
(00:10:21) Personalization in AI Coaching
How AI coaches can adapt personalities and avatars to cater to user preferences.
(00:12:51) Group Dynamics in AI Coaching
Pros and cons of adding social features and group support to AI coaching systems.
(00:14:08) Ambient Awareness in Technology
Ambient awareness and how it enhances user engagement without active attention.
(00:17:44) Using AI in Elementary Education
Narrative-driven tutoring systems to inspire kids' learning and creativity.
(00:22:59) Encouraging Student Writing with AI
Using LLMs to motivate students to write through personalized feedback.
(00:23:52) Scaling AI Educational Tools
The ACORN project and creating dynamic, scalable learning experiences.
(00:27:58) Human-Centered AI
The concept of human-centered AI and its focus on designing for society.
(00:30:34) Conclusion
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