At present and for the duration of my life, artificial intelligence (AI) is highly popular. As per McAfee, Rock, and Brynjolfsson in the Harvard Business Review, AI is considered to be “general-purpose systems akin to electricity, the heat website,” and is likened to the internet. Despite acknowledging ongoing internet issues and other challenges, it is evident that AI is a permanent fixture. As educators, we face the choice of either embracing this technology or risking obsolescence in comparison to our tech-savvy students.
Over the past few decades, my utilization of AI has increased significantly. Initially, I delved into it out of curiosity, exploring its potential relevance to my roles as an artist, expert, and business owner.
Admittedly, I lack coding skills. However, I have leveraged AI in various aspects of my work, from designing courses on Thinkific to establishing the Instructional Leadership Collective website and utilizing Mentimeter for both in-person and online workshops. Embracing AI has pushed me out of my technological comfort zone, fostering a more profound and rigorous learning experience in a psychologically safe environment.
Key Takeaways from My AI Journey:
I prefer starting small when venturing into new territory. My first encounter with AI was in an unexpected domain—cooking. This led me to experiment with gourmet recipes, transitioning from struggling with basic tasks like opening cans to preparing elaborate dishes such as filet mignon and blue cheese turkey burgers with basil, all guided by AI-generated recipes.
Furthermore, AI has enhanced my ability to formulate insightful inquiries. By reflecting on the questions posed and the knowledge acquired post-meetings, I refine my approach to future inquiries. Adjusting the wording of queries to ensure AI comprehension mirrors the adaptability required in human interactions.
In addition to improving questioning techniques, AI has shed light on communication dynamics. Analyzing conversational patterns has revealed insights into mentorship dynamics, prompting a conscious effort to balance speaking and listening roles effectively.
Moreover, AI serves as a motivational tool, particularly in ideation processes for keynotes, workshops, and content creation. While it may not always provide precise solutions, the mere act of engaging with AI sparks creativity and fresh perspectives.
Lastly, delving into the diverse realms of AI, as outlined in the ISTE content, has broadened my understanding of its classifications, from reactive systems like Alexa to predictive tools exemplified by Netflix’s recommendation algorithms and generative models such as ChatGPT.
In conclusion, the ubiquity of AI in everyday interactions, from requesting a song from Alexa to selecting a movie on Netflix, underscores its pervasive influence. Despite prevalent concerns, particularly regarding misinformation and data accuracy, demystifying AI’s varied applications is crucial in fostering informed engagement with this transformative technology.
