In the latest episode of GAEA Talks, our podcast series exploring the transformative power of artificial intelligence, we had the pleasure of speaking with Professor Mike Sharples, Emeritus Professor of Educational Technology at The Open University, UK. Professor Sharples boasts a remarkable background with a PhD from the Department of Artificial Intelligence, University of Edinburgh, focused on Cognition, Computers and Creative Writing. His expertise lies in human-centred design and evaluation of new technologies for learning, and he provides consultancy for institutions worldwide, including UNESCO, UNICEF, universities and companies. During the podcast, he shared his fascinating journey in AI, his insights on the importance of playful learning, and the exciting potential of AI to enhance human creativity.
A Lifelong Journey in AI
Professor Sharples’ fascination with computers began in the 1960s when he had the opportunity to play games on a room-sized computer at a local technical college. This early exposure sparked his interest in the potential of computers to teach and learn. He went on to study computer science and artificial intelligence, eventually completing a PhD in generative AI in education.
The Importance of Playful Learning
Professor Sharples believes that children are naturally curious and that learning should be an exploratory and playful process. He has conducted numerous research projects exploring how children use technology to learn and create. In one project, he gave 8-year-old children access to video cameras and allowed them to film their world. The results were fascinating, as the children used the cameras in creative ways that adults would never have thought of.
AI as a Tool for Creativity
Professor Sharples sees AI as a powerful tool for creativity. He believes that AI can be used to explore possibilities, generate new ideas, and create new forms of art and entertainment. He is particularly excited about the potential of AI to enable social interaction and collaborative storytelling.
The Need for Control
Professor Sharples also emphasises the importance of control when it comes to AI. He believes that AI should be used to enhance human creativity, not to replace it. He is concerned about the potential for AI to be used to create a “Matrix” where humans are passively entertained by AI-generated content.
The Future of AI
Professor Sharples is optimistic about the future of AI. He believes that AI has the potential to enhance human experience and bring people together from different backgrounds and cultures. However, he also stresses the importance of ensuring that AI is used in a way that benefits humanity as a whole.
Key Takeaways
- Professor Sharples is a pioneer in the field of AI in education.
- He believes that learning should be an exploratory and playful process.
- He sees AI as a powerful tool for creativity.
- He emphasises the importance of control when it comes to AI.
- He predicts that AI will become much more personal and configurable to an individual’s needs, personality, and objectives.
- He is optimistic about the future of AI, but stresses the importance of ensuring that it is used in a way that benefits humanity as a whole.
This interview with Professor Mike Sharples provides valuable insights into the history of AI, the importance of playful learning, and the potential of AI to enhance human creativity. It also raises important questions about the need for control and the future of AI.
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