Skin-Deep Learning and The Trouble with AI Chatbots

Part of an ongoing discussion about AI advancements

Are AI chatbots bringing us closer to rapid learning (knowledge acquisition) in The Matrix?

I realize we can’t directly upload information… yet.

Notably, asking an AI chatbot this question the focus was on, ready for it, scalability.

They’d also prefer we refer to this concept as “integrated and immersive learning experiences” thank you very much.

Deeper Down the Rabbit Hole…

Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) like Neuralink.

Sources speculate in 10-20 years, we can use BCI-esque tools to help those with disabilities, prosthetics, and other ailments.

In 20-50 years, we may be entering the realm of conceivable ability to enhance learning and augment memory.

It’s speculated that maybe, in the still very Sci-Fi future, we will figure out a way to directly encode any sort of “complex skill” or “knowledge sets” on the brain. This would require a significant breakthrough in neuroscience.

Here’s What’s Wild About the Power AI Chatbots Already Possess…

Looking into this subject matter, I asked about citing sources and was told,

“The information represents a synthesis of known research and expert opinion, it doesn't rely on a single source but rather draws from an understanding of the broader scientific and technological landscape as of the latest knowledge available up to 2023.”

In certain ways, we may be very quickly advancing our capacities for knowledge acquisition. The question of retention is another matter. So too, our ability to make use of information. It makes me wonder how much of “the middle man” we’re cutting out with chatbot searches. Is this like using a calculator instead of doing long division? Or… is it more like reading CliffsNotes?

Almost humorously, the chatbots will tell you that they are both and more. Claude, however, did know chatbots are known to make mistakes, and that they “require more critical thinking from the user.” And: “It's probably most useful as a complement to, rather than a replacement for, deeper forms of study and engagement with primary sources.”

Worth keeping in mind.             

What Are Deeper Forms of Learning?

Some of these we already know… and neglect. And we know we neglect them.

Reading primary sources is an obvious example. Go to the source, right? Instead of reading secondary sources or, nowadays, hearsay shared by non-experts, read a book or academic paper or scientific study for yourself.

Next comes the critical analysis and critical thinking elements. We need to do some of the synthesis for ourselves. If we’re just reading materials where all the hard work has been done for us—we’re not really stretching our mental faculties though avenues of active learning. In this context, by active, we’re talking about mulling over the information, inner debate, even external debate with others if you can manage it in a reasonable and non-toxic manner.

It’s also important to think about the real-world application of ideas. Armchair philosophy and banter can be fun but it’s all too much like Monday Morning Quarterbacking if you’re not putting in some legwork to figure out how all this relates to real life.

Intersectionality and interdisciplinary perspectives are important to keep in mind. You’ll broaden your horizons if you consider several perspectives and not just from those in the same area of expertise. Ideas and concepts and theories take on new features when you’re looking through a different lens. Don’t get siloed into thinking about something through the lens or just one or two ideologies. Without meaning to do so, you’re closing yourself off to new possibilities. Receptiveness and openness are essential aspects of continued education. If you stop wanting to learn new things and start wanting to harden in your ways, you need to sit yourself down for an important talk.   

Is AI Chatbot “Learning” Addictive in a Manner Similar to Engaging with Duolingo?

Chatbots are not yet fully gamified but Claude did recently add "Artifacts" which seems like you've created something from nothing. Invention. From experience, there’s an odd sense of accomplishment and discovery.

But is searching on AI chatbots addictive or is it more like the buzz that Wikipedians get that propels their desire to continue to aid Wikipedia's mission as unpaid citizens scientists?