I have a passion for learning new things. There’s something exhilarating about discovering a new piece of the puzzle of life and experiencing the rush of ideas and insights that follow. It’s a positive addiction of mine, and I especially enjoy learning through reading. Back in university, I would transcribe my professors’ lectures and study those notes meticulously. This method boosted my GPA at the University of Toronto from 2.7 in my first year to 3.95 out of 4 in my last. So I really appreciate courses that provide transcripts because they align with my learning style.

Lately, I’ve been incorporating AI into my learning routine. Now, before you roll your eyes and dismiss this idea, hear me out. While it’s true that AI can lead to surface learning if used superficially—like when I needed to pass a basic and boring course needed for a certification—it can also facilitate deeper, more meaningful learning experiences.

To clarify, surface learning often involves memorizing facts or concepts without fully understanding their application or significance. It’s a more passive approach, suitable for situations where rote memorization suffices, such as passing a test. In contrast, in-depth learning is characterized by a thorough understanding of material, including its application, implications, and interconnections with other knowledge. It’s a more active and engaged form of learning, focused on critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical application.

I’ve developed a structured approach to using AI in my learning, which helps me move beyond surface learning and achieve in-depth understanding:

1. Transcription Review: I start by feeding the transcription of a lesson or pictures of pages from a book into the AI and ask it to learn the concept. Then I ask for a summary. This gives me an overview and helps identify key points.
2. Definition and Clarification: I ask the AI to define specific terms and concepts. This step ensures I understand the foundational elements of the subject. I often prompt the AI to explain concepts in a very simple way, sometimes even asking it to explain them as if to a high school student.
3. Relevant Research: The AI helps me find relevant research and additional resources, providing a broader context and deeper insights. Many times, this research leads to the introduction of new terms and ideas, which gives me a rush on its own!
4. Real-Life Examples: I request real-life examples to make abstract concepts more tangible and relatable. This step bridges the gap between theory and practice.
5. Interactive Discussion: I engage in a brainstorming session with the AI, discussing concepts and asking questions. This interactive approach helps me explore different perspectives and solidify my understanding. I always push the AI to think outside the box, encouraging it to brainstorm ways to apply this learning or concept to my work.
6. Fact-Checking: I always ensure the information provided by the AI is accurate, asking it to verify sources, flag any uncertainties and double check the facts.

This way of learning has transformed my experience and I feel it allows for a deeper exploration of subjects and promotes a more engaged and practical approach to learning. While AI has the potential to encourage shallow learning, ultimately like anything else in life, it depends on how you use it. By taking a structured and thoughtful approach, you can leverage AI to achieve a profound understanding and make your learning experience richer and more rewarding.