AI Superpowers

20th August 2024

Cheery Friday Greetings!

Book of the Month! 

AI Superpowers: China, Silicon Valley, and the New World Order, by Kai-Fu Lee. This fascinating book provides an insider’s perspective on the AI race between China and the United States. Lee, a prominent figure in both Silicon Valley and the Chinese tech world, offers unique insights into the strengths and strategies of each country’s approach to AI development. One of the book’s strengths is Lee’s balanced perspective, acknowledging both the strengths and weaknesses of the American and Chinese approaches. His personal experiences, having worked in both environments, lend credibility to his comparisons.

The book begins with a compelling analysis of China’s rapid rise in AI capabilities, challenging common Western perceptions. Lee argues that China’s advantages lie in its vast data resources, entrepreneurial drive, and government support. He provides vivid examples of the fierce competition and “copycat” culture in China’s tech scene, painting a picture of an ecosystem primed for AI innovation.

Lee’s exploration of the four waves of AI adoption – Internet AI, Business AI, Perception AI, and Autonomous AI – offers a clear framework for understanding how AI will reshape various industries. His predictions about job displacement due to AI are sobering but thoughtful, encouraging readers to consider the broader societal implications of this technological revolution.

The latter part of the book takes an unexpected turn as Lee reflects on his battle with cancer and subsequent shift in perspective. While his emphasis on the importance of love and human connection in an AI-driven world is heartfelt, it’s worth noting that such a rapid pivot to “love” as a solution, without deeper exploration of how it can also be used as a hook to harm, could be seen as overly simplistic. Similarly, Lee’s suggestion that deep expertise may become less necessary in an AI-dominated world is intriguing but potentially problematic. As our work on pathological altruism has shown, well-intentioned but oversimplified solutions can sometimes lead to unintended negative consequences.

While the book’s exploration of sensitive topics related to China’s policies is understandably constrained, it still offers a rare glimpse into the contrasting worldviews shaping AI development in the world’s two largest economies. Lee’s work serves as an important contribution to our understanding of the broader AI landscape and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Barb’s Copenhagen Calling: Join Her at GOTO 2024!

Exciting news from the world of tech and learning! Barb has been invited to share her expertise at the prestigious GOTO Conference 2024 in beautiful Copenhagen. But this isn’t just any speaking engagement – Barb will be delivering both a keynote speech and a full-day workshop, diving deep into the latest developments in AI-enhanced learning and critical thinking. GOTO is known for attracting a diverse, international crowd of tech enthusiasts and innovators, making it the perfect place to explore cutting-edge ideas. Want to be part of this incredible event? There’s still time to register! Join Barb in Copenhagen for an unforgettable experience of learning, networking, and maybe even a Danish pastry or two. Don’t miss this chance to engage with Barb and other thought leaders in person. Head over to https://gotocph.com/2024 to secure your spot. See you in Copenhagen!

Barb on “The Art and Science of Learning” Podcast

We’re excited to share a new podcast featuring Barb! Scott Barron recently interviewed her for his “Educators Among Us” podcast in an episode titled “The Art and Science of Learning: An Interview with Dr. Barbara Oakley”. In this engaging conversation, Barb discusses her unconventional journey from language specialist to engineering professor, shares insights on effective learning techniques, and explores the challenges and opportunities of AI in education. Whether you’re an educator or a lifelong learner, you’ll find valuable insights in this wide-ranging discussion. Listen to the full episode:

Mind, Body, and Learning: Barb on the Inner Sanctuary Podcast

Barb recently had an enlightening conversation with Shamim on his “Inner Sanctuary” podcast, which explores the intersection of health, mindfulness, and human potential. This dialogue takes a holistic approach to learning, touching on how practices like meditation and yoga can enhance cognitive abilities. Barb and Shamim also venture into thought-provoking territory, discussing the future of education in the age of AI and the delicate balance of free speech in our rapidly changing world. For those interested in a mind-body perspective on learning and personal growth, this episode offers a refreshing and multifaceted exploration. Tune in here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-xvd3zfURk. 

Tune In: Equitable Education Explored on Chalk and Talk Podcast!

Here’s a treat for all you learning enthusiasts out there! Anna Stokke’s “Chalk and Talk” podcast recently featured a fascinating conversation with Nidhi Sachdeva and Jim Hewitt about equitable education. They dive into how cognitive science can inform instructional design to level the playing field for all students. From explicit instruction to retrieval practice, they explore strategies that have been shown to reduce inequities in the classroom. It’s a conversation that’s both timely and crucial for anyone interested in education. Why not give it a listen? You can find the episode wherever you get your podcasts, or head straight to the source: https://chalkandtalkpodcast.podbean.com/e/exploring-evidence-for-equitable-education-with-nidhi-sachdeva-and-jim-hewitt-ep-31/. If you find it as enlightening as we did, consider sharing it with your network. After all, spreading good ideas is what learning is all about!

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

Barb, Terry, and the entire Learning How to Learn and Deep Teaching Solutions team

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!

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