We are pleased to announce that the presentations successfully concluded on April 19, 2024. Thank you to all attendees. If you missed our talk, view the recorded Zoom session here!
How can AI become a catalyst for learning experiences? Join members of Thaumazo’s ‘AI & Us Working Group’ to explore this topic from three angles. Moderated by Dr. Melanie Wong.
Nick Woolsey discusses his use of GPT-4 for self-directed learning, demonstrating how interactive prompts can personalize and deepen educational experiences through heutagogy.
Reid Patterson delves into the cognitive revolution, likening its impact to the Industrial Revolution and showcasing the creation of a ‘second brain’ with Obsidian and Large Language Models to boost memory and creativity.
Daniel Lindenberger integrates LLM and facilitated conversation to create individualized and collaborative learning experiences for K-12 students in ‘Personal Pathways’ and Travis Vanderberg’s ‘Make a Change’ project, promoting student-led learning that emphasizes personalized education and societal impact.
MODERATOR
Dr. Melanie Wong
Melanie Wong (B.Ed., M.Ed. and Ph.D.) is a passionate educator. She has extensive experience designing learning environments for learners from Kindergarten to Grade 12 (K-12) to post-secondary. Prior to starting her career at UBC, she worked for the Calgary Board of Education in various roles including as a technology teacher and system leader (English Language Learner (ELL) Strategist). Melanie is an advocate for using technologies as a tool to support all learners. Her research interests focuses on K-12 ELLs in technology-enhanced classrooms. In her work at the Emerging Media Lab, Melanie looks forward to supporting faculty to intentionally design learning experiences for their students using digital technologies as a tool.
PANELISTS
Nick Woolsey
Nick Woolsey is a media artist and poi-dance pioneer. After 20 years of teaching circus-arts all over the world, he decided to finish a degree in Communication at Simon Fraser University. He enjoyed the process of learning as a motivated adult, but was somewhat disappointed with what he saw as a lack of a comprehensive theory of learning at play. Upon graduating, he rolled up his sleeves to explore heutagogy: the art and process of self-directed learning.
Beyond his circus career, Nick’s past pursuits have included freelancing for CBC radio, writing for magazines, writing and directing theatre productions, publishing his novel, Emails from (Over?) the Edge, and various other shenanigans
Reid Patterson, UBC Geering Up Engineering Outreach
Reid Patterson blends roles as a developer, educator, and creative technologist at UBC Geering Up Engineering Outreach, where he’s known for his innovative contributions to educational technology. Holding a Bachelor’s in Cognitive Science from The University of British Columbia, Reid has significantly impacted education by developing engaging computer science tools and workshops for over 10,000 students. His work extends beyond academia into volunteering and creative pursuits, including mentoring, generative art, and a passion for Dungeons and Dragons. Reid embodies the spirit of innovation and community engagement, making technology and education more accessible and engaging.
Daniel Lindenberger, Thaumazo
Daniel Lindenberger is dedicated to creating positive impact through innovative technology. As a Director at Thaumazo, based in Langley, British Columbia, Daniel creates and collaborates on initiatives that align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, fostering collaborative projects and community engagement for global betterment. With a background in experiential and environmental education from the Audibon Expedition Institute and a BA in Philosophy from The University of British Columbia, Daniel’s unique approach integrates technological innovation, community and consensus building.