Inside Learning | Unlocking human potential

Cognitive flexibility is a top workplace skill, says the WEF. Waqas Ahmed, author of The Polymath, explains why outsourcing thinking to AI erodes it. Waqas defines cognitive flexibility as both the ability to shift between domains and a higher-order capacity to handle complex, ill-structured problems, and argues versatility, not agility, is the skill that survives accelerating change. He and Aidan McCullen trace how we built today’s silo culture, why transformation projects fail because of it, and the two polymath competencies he develops in organisations: versatility and integration. He also explains why current LLMs converge on safe, average answers, and how his Da Vinci AI project aims to provoke divergent, human-led creativity instead. Inside Learning, hosted by Irish Keynote Speaker Aidan McCullen, explores learning science and the future of work, and is produced by Learnovate. Subscribe to Inside Learning wherever you listen.

In this episode, we delve into the world of learning innovation with Graham Brown-Martin, author of ’Learning Reimagined’. Graham shares his journey from working on mainframe computers at the Open University to pioneering educational technology in the 1980s. We explore key topics such as the contrast between instructionism and constructionism, the evolution of the education system, the impact of neurodiversity, and the future of work in the age of automation. Graham’s unique insights highlight the need for a systemic transformation in education and the crucial role of diverse thinking in driving innovation. Join us for an enlightening conversation on the transformative power of learning and technology. 00:00 Introduction to Inside Learning Podcast 00:15 Guest Introduction: Graham Brown-Martin 01:51 Early Career and Mainframe Computers 02:39 Educational Software and the Micros in School Scheme 05:12 The Shift from Instructionism to Constructionism 18:21 The Role of Neurodivergence in Innovation 23:46 The Future of Work and Education 34:15 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Find Graham https://www.grahambrownmartin.com Find those Vimeo videos: https://vimeo.com/showcase/8802420

In this episode of the Inside Learning Podcast, brought to you by the Learnovate Center, Michael B. Horn discusses his new book ’Job Moves: Nine Steps for Making Progress in Your Career,’ offering valuable advice for those feeling stuck in their careers. He delves into the importance of understanding personal progress in career choices, the concept of ’jobs to be done,’ and why thinking about experiences rather than perks is crucial when assessing job opportunities. Horn also sheds light on the necessity of cataloging personal capabilities and making informed decisions based on the trade-offs in any job role. This episode is packed with actionable insights for both individuals navigating their careers and employers aiming to retain talent. 00:00 Introduction to the Inside Learning Podcast 00:15 Navigating Career Transitions 00:48 Introducing Michael Horn and His New Book 02:09 Understanding Job Progress and Choices 04:30 The Jobs to Be Done Theory 05:33 Applying the Theory to Career Choices 17:09 Evaluating Your Career Assets and Liabilities 20:43 Making Informed Career Decisions 25:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Find all sheets and information on the book here: https://www.jobmoves.com

In this episode of The Inside Learning Podcast, hosted by Aidan and brought to you by the Learnovate Center, we dive into the transformative concept of the access economy with special guest Sara Daw. Sara, the author of ’Strategy and Leadership as Service: How the Access Economy Meets the C-Suite’, provides insightful definitions and real-world applications of the access economy. The discussion highlights the advance of mobile technology and the younger generation’s focus on social capital, which drive the shift from ownership to on-demand access. Sara introduces the idea of psychological ownership and its pivotal role in the access economy, particularly for sharing professional C-suite services. The conversation also explores the gig economy, portfolio work, and the integration of AI in the evolving workforce. Learn how individuals and organizations can adapt and thrive in this new economic landscape. Visit LearnovateCenter.org for more insights on the future of work and the science of learning. 00:00 Introduction to the Inside Learning Podcast 00:15 Understanding the Access Economy 03:22 Psychological Ownership in the Access Economy 05:07 The Gig Economy and Portfolio C-Suite 12:23 AI’s Impact on the Future of Work 16:40 Sara Daw’s Research and Insights 21:49 Future of Education and Mentorship 24:05 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of the Inside Learning Podcast, brought to you by the Learnovate Centre, we dive into the transformative power of experiential learning with Elyse Klaidman, co-founder of X in a Box and Story Experiential. Elyse shares her extensive background, including her 22-year tenure at Pixar as Creative Director and her pivotal role in forming Pixar University. We discuss the growing demand for alternative education paths such as project-based virtual apprenticeships, the importance of storytelling in learning, and the innovative ways to make education more inclusive and impactful. Elyse also highlights the journey of creating initiatives like Pixar in a Box and emphasizes the significance of integrating creative learning methods in today’s educational systems to equip students for the future. Tune in for insights on the future of education, creativity, and innovation. 00:00 Introduction to the Inside Learning Podcast 00:15 The Evolution of Education and Alternative Learning Paths 01:01 Guest Introduction: Elyse Klaidman’s Journey 02:33 Early Influences and Teaching Beginnings 04:41 Experiential Learning at the Lab School of Washington 08:03 Joining Pixar and the Birth of Pixar University 12:30 The Impact and Growth of Pixar University 16:55 Leadership Development and the ROI of Training 20:34 Transition to X in a Box and Experiential Learning 28:41 The Vision and Future of X in a Box 42:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Find Elyse and Story Xperential here: https://www.storyxperiential.com Find X in Box Courses here: https://www.xiab.org/companies education, experiential learning, Pixar University, Story Experiential, X in a Box, Elyse Klaidman, Aidan McCullen, Learnovate Centre, Inside Learning Podcast, innovation, leadership development, equity in education, storytelling, interdisciplinary learning, project-based learning, community feedback, AI and education, neurodiversity, inclusive education

Reimagining Work and Learning: Future Trends with Rob C. Wolcott & Kaihan Krippendorff In this episode of The Inside Learning Podcast presented by the Learnovate Centre, hosts welcome authors Rob C. Wolcott and Kaihan Krippendorff to discuss their book ’Proximity’. They explore the concept of ’proximity’, or the capability to deliver anything, anywhere, anytime, driven by advances in digital technology. The discussion addresses the impact of these changes on the future of work, with a focus on creating more adaptive, on-demand solutions and reducing waste. The conversation delves into the breaking down of traditional job roles, the emergence of portfolio careers, and the importance of continuous learning to remain relevant in today’s dynamic job market. The guests highlight the importance of integrating humanities and arts with STEM education to equip individuals better for future challenges. The episode wraps up with reflections on AI’s role in facilitating quick learning and decision-making.

Transforming Society with AI: Ethics, Education, and the Future of Work This episode of the Inside Learning Podcast, presented by the Learnovate Centre, features an insightful discussion with Nell Watson, an expert on AI ethics. The conversation delves into recent advancements in AI and their transformative potential for society and economies, emphasizing the need for ethical leadership and responsible AI development. Watson discusses the concept of a ’Sputnik moment’ for AI, highlighting the rapid progress in AI capabilities and the challenges in steering this technology to align with human values and ethics. The episode also explores AI’s impact on education and the workforce, suggesting a shift towards developing critical thinking and creative skills amid an AI-dominated future. Additionally, the dialogue touches on the idea of AI-driven corporations and the potential of universal basic income supported by AI dividends. The session concludes by discussing the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in navigating the future shaped by AI. 00:00 Welcome to Inside Learning: Exploring the Power of Learning 00:15 The Transformative Power of AI: A New Era 01:07 Ethical AI: Steering the Future Responsibly 01:29 Introducing Nell Watson: AI Ethicist and Author 02:11 AI’s Impact on Society: A Conversation with Nell Watson 05:53 AI Ethics and Safety: Navigating the Challenges 14:30 AI in Education: Shaping the Future of Learning 25:09 AI in the Workplace: Algorithmic Management and Its Implications 30:40 The Future of Work and Education in the AI Era 34:25 Closing Thoughts and Resources The links mentioned in the episode: https://tamingthemachine.com/ https://www.nellwatson.com/