Brains and AI – Supercommunicators

Cheery Friday Greetings to our Learning How to Learners!

Thrilling News!

Our very own Terry Sejnowski has started a (free) Substack: “ Brains and AI.”  In his first three posts, Terry explores the convergence of artificial intelligence and neuroscience, offering rare insight into how advances in each field are accelerating progress in the other. With his unique perspective as a pioneer in both AI and brain research, Terry unpacks complex topics like large language models and neural networks with clarity and wit. Whether you’re curious about the future of AI or eager to understand how our own brains work, Terry’s Substack promises to be an enlightening journey to the frontiers of intelligence, both natural and artificial. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the world’s leading experts – subscribe to “ Brains and AI” today!

Book of the Month

 Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection, by Charles Duhigg. From the author of The Power of Habit comes another masterpiece that will transform how you think about communication and human connection. Duhigg’s core insight is that every interaction involves three distinct types of conversations happening simultaneously – practical (“What’s this really about?”), emotional (“How do we feel?”), and social (“Who are we?”). By recognizing and skillfully navigating these layers, anyone can dramatically improve their ability to connect with others.

What sets this book apart is Duhigg’s masterful storytelling. He takes us inside a deadlocked jury room, alongside a CIA officer recruiting an agent, and into a surgeon’s office as they struggle to convince patients. Through these vivid scenes, abstract communication principles come alive.

But Supercommunicators is far more than just an entertaining read. Duhigg provides a wealth of actionable advice you can immediately apply. You’ll learn how to identify conversation types, overcome common pitfalls, uncover hidden emotions and values, build rapport in challenging situations, and craft messages that resonate on multiple levels.

What we love most is how this book champions genuine human connection. This isn’t about manipulation, but developing the awareness and skills to truly understand others and be understood in return. In a world of increasing polarization, these are invaluable tools.

Whether you’re looking to improve relationships, enhance leadership abilities, or simply become more empathetic, Supercommunicators offers invaluable wisdom. Highly recommended!

The Power of Integrating New Ideas into Your Teaching

If you are planning to look with fresh eyes at your teaching this fall, this inspirational email from Alejandro Entredicho Jr. can both boost your spirits and give you fresh ideas! He writes:

“I hope this letter finds you surrounded by happiness and joy. My name is Alejandro, and I am a real estate educator from the beautiful Philippines. I am writing to you with a heart full of gratitude and admiration for the incredible course,  Uncommon Sense Teaching, which I recently completed on Coursera.

“The course has been nothing short of a revelation for me. As someone who is always striving to become a better trainer, the insights and strategies have been like a guiding light, especially the importance of retrieval practice, illuminating the path to more effective teaching. The practical techniques that were shared, from effective feedback to fostering a growth mindset, have not only transformed my teaching methods but also the learning experiences of my students.

“I have to say, Uncommon Sense Teaching’s unique approach to teaching is like a breath of fresh air. The way you present complex scientific concepts with such clarity and charm makes learning feel like a delightful adventure. It’s as if you have sprinkled a bit of magic into the world of education, making it accessible and engaging for everyone.

“Since integrating these principles into my curriculum, I’ve seen a wave of positive feedback from my trainees. It’s heartwarming to witness their growth and enthusiasm, all thanks to the techniques I’ve learned from Uncommon Sense Teaching. This course has not just equipped me with knowledge but has also reignited my passion for teaching and learning.

“Your dedication to enhancing global education through platforms like Coursera is truly inspiring. Thanks to your course, people like me, thousands of miles away, have the privilege to learn from the best. You’ve created a ripple effect of knowledge and inspiration that reaches far and wide.

“From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Uncommon Sense Teaching has been a beacon of light in my professional journey, and I am eternally grateful for the wisdom and passion you and your team have shared with us. I eagerly look forward to any future courses you may offer and wish you endless success and happiness in all your endeavors.”

We here at Learning How to Learn would also like to point out that Alejandro also has an  Uncommon Sense Newsletter  that you will enjoy checking out. 

That’s all for now. Have a happy week in learning!

Barb, Terry, and the entire Learning How to Learn team

• Uncommon Sense Teaching— the book and Coursera  Specialization!

• Mindshift— the book  and  MOOC 

• Learn Like a Pro— the book and  MOOC

• The LHTL recommended text,  A Mind for Numbers

• For kids and parents: Learning How to Learn— the book  and  MOOC. Pro tip—watch the videos and read the book together with your child. Learning how to learn at an early age will change their life!