Day 16 – Learn Difficult Things Better – 30 Day AI Challenge 2024

Welcome to the 2024 Edition of the #30DayAIChallenge. This year, we’ll be focusing on making Generative AI more accessible for all. So follow along and give each challenge a try yourself, plus share your own thoughts and experiments with a community of like-minded learners and tinkerers!*

Week 3’s theme is “School of Bots“, tackling AI and education, with a view on improving our ability to learn, as well as teach others (including our kids!).

Today’s Challenge: Use AI To Make Learning Quicker & Fun!

Learning new concepts, subjects, or tackling difficult problems can often feel like an uphill battle. With today’s challenge, we’re going to explore how Generative AI can transform this journey into an engaging, and surprisingly more manageable endeavor.

Beginners: Getting Started with Generative AI for Learning

• Interactive Chatbots for Basic Understanding: Use AI chatbots to get simplified explanations of complex topics. For instance, if quantum physics seems daunting, a chatbot can break it down into more digestible, layman’s terms. Tools like ChatGPT can guide you through the basics, answer your questions, and even quiz you on what you’ve learned.

• Customized Learning Material with AI: Leverage AI to create personalized study guides, practice quizzes or summaries on topics you’re learning. Input the subject matter, and let the AI generate notes, summaries, or even flashcards tailored to your learning style and level of understanding.

• Visual Learning through AI-Generated Images: If you’re a visual learner, use text to image AI models like Stable Diffusion, Midjourney or DALL-E to create visuals or diagrams of the concepts you’re studying. Visualizing complex systems or processes can make them easier to understand and remember.

Some Fun Challenges To Try Out:

• AI Explain-Off: Find a complex topic. Use ChatGPT to get a simplified explanation and an image generator to create a visual. Post both, and see if others can guess the topic correctly.
• The Concept Remix: Pick two unrelated fields (ex: botany and computer programming). Have an AI tool explore connections or combine elements of both in a surprising way. Sparks creativity!
• AI-Assisted Debate Club: Set a controversial topic. Use a generative AI to get arguments in favor and against it. Challenge yourself to argue the side you initially disagree with to build understanding.
• Learn Through Creation: Pick a tough subject you struggle with. Try having a generative AI help you write a song, poem, or short story explaining the concept. The process of turning information into a creative format deepens learning.

Here’s a fun test I’d tried out in March 2023, using Ben Graham’s iconic book “The Intelligent Investor” as an example:

Day 3 of 30 Day AI Challenge – Making Learning Fun

…and here’s the rap song summarizing the awesomeness of the book! 😄

For Advanced Users: Deep Diving with Generative AI

1. Simulations and Models: Advanced learners can use AI to create simulations or models of complex systems or problems they’re studying. This is particularly useful in fields like physics, engineering, or biology, where understanding dynamic interactions is crucial.
2. Language Models for Research Papers: Utilize AI to sift through research papers, summarize findings, and even suggest areas of novel research. This can significantly speed up the literature review process and spark new ideas for your work.
3. Enhanced Problem-Solving with AI: For complex problem-solving, combine your expertise with AI’s computational power to find solutions. Whether it’s coding algorithms, mathematical problems, or theoretical questions, AI can offer new perspectives or solutions you might not have considered.

Challenges to Try:

• Create a simulation of a complex system in your field of interest and use it to predict outcomes.
• Use AI to conduct a literature review on a niche topic and identify gaps where further research is needed.

Bonus: Generative AI + Computational Knowledge:

If you’re in the habit of diving into difficult topics, you may already be aware of Wolfram Alpha, which is a computational knowledge engine. Unlike a search engine, it directly computes answers and generates step-by-step solutions for complex problems, especially in math and science. This makes it great for learning because it reveals the process behind the answer, not just the answer itself. The great thing is that you can also leverage the power of Wolfram Alpha from inside ChatGPT, which makes for a powerful combo!

Concluding Thoughts

As we dive into the capabilities of Generative AI, it’s clear that the landscape of learning and problem-solving is evolving (for the better!). From offering personalized learning experiences to enhancing our problem-solving capabilities, AI is not just a tool but can be a partner in our intellectual journeys. As technology advances, the potential for even more personalized and efficient learning methods is boundless.

If you give any of these tools or challenges a try, leave a comment and share your experience! If you’re using other platforms to post, please tag your Facebook, Twitter / X or LinkedIn post with #30DayAIChallenge so others can find it too.

Till tomorrow…

*Please note: Participation in the 30 Day AI Challenge is at your own discretion and responsibility. Always ensure that no sensitive personal information, confidential, or proprietary company data is shared. Adhere to all applicable local laws and company policies. Enjoy exploring AI responsibly!