The Science of Forgetfulness

We all have lapses in memory. Sometimes we forget names, passwords, where we parked our car. But other times our memory is almost photographic. We recall phone numbers, conversations, and the plot of our favorite books. The question, then, is: why the inconsistency? What are the origins of forgetfulness and why does it fluctuate?

One answer comes from neurobiology. As researchers Lars Schwabe and Oliver T. Wolf were able to show, stress plays a significant role in how we remember. In fact, they demonstrate that the presence of stress during the learning process plays a direct role in memory formation. When ascertaining new information under stressful conditions, the ability to recall this information was later observed to be rather subpar.

But wait, can’t stress boost learning and enhance memory?

Of course. However, Schwabe and Wolf argue the kind of stress and the context in which it occurs is critical. When stress and learning are conceptually linked—such as the stress of trying a new sport—our focus and memory spike. But when stress and learning are experienced as separate and unrelated phenomena, memory can be significantly impaired. For example, learning a language when you know your parking meter has just expired.

The Power of a Full Sleep Cycle

Many of us have heard how beneficial a healthy sleep schedule is for our physical and mental health, as well as our capabilities as a lifelong learner. But this kind of advice is rarely elaborated on. What kind of sleep is best for boosting our health and improving our lives?

Psychologists Penelope A. Lewis, Günther Knoblich, and Gina Poe have shed light on this via recent research on the relationship between learning and sleep. To make a long story short, their findings suggest that different forms of mental problem-solving that occur in waking life are linked to different sleep stages.

In particular, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep versus non-rapid eye movement sleep—two distinct phases of our nightly sleep cycle—are said to assist in very different forms of brain activity. The former has been linked to boosted creativity, or the ability to build novel associations between ideas, whereas the latter has been linked to what’s called “gist abstraction,” or the ability to recode memories in a way that assist in comprehension and pattern-detection.

Most importantly, though, their findings indicate how crucial each stage is for healthy cognition. They suggest that it is only when the two sleep stages are working together that our learning is functioning at full capacity. For lifelong learners, then, the lesson here is about the important of the entire sleep cycle. While any amount of sleep is good for us, the evidence suggests that experiencing each stage of sleep—from REM to non-REM—is crucial for a healthy mind.

The Mindful Mind

You’ve probably heard it a hundred times now: mindfulness can do it all. As a wellness practice, it offers a myriad of physical and mental benefits. As a learning strategy, it can boost performance and strengthen focus. But what’s really going on?

As education scholar Kimberley Holmes asserts, mindfulness is far more than a passing fad. It is a legitimate practice for supporting one’s growth—be it personal, professional, or pedagogical. Through a survey of research studies, Holmes demonstrates the powerful role mindfulness can play in boosting neural plasticity, or the mental flexibility required to learn new skills and information.

What’s more, she advocates for mindfulness as a key teaching tool in all educational environments. More specifically, she calls for greater use of “contemplative neuroscience,” a set of mindful techniques designed to calm stress, increase focus, establish a mind-body connection, reduce bias, and orient learners toward their personalized learning goals.

At this point, Holmes argues, the verdict on mindfulness is clear: its benefits as a tool for emotional clarity and cognitive performance are unparalleled. The question all lifelong learners must ask, then, is whether they will take the leap and begin incorporating it into their own lives.

The Tip of the Iceberg

There’s an tremendous amount of work being done by top researchers across the world, and so much of it can improve how we learn and care for ourselves. But it’s often crowded out by all the online noise. That’s why it’s important to curate what one consumes and declutter one’s digital space.

It’s also why finding a couple trustworthy sources, like Mission to Learn, is so important. If this sort of exploration of cutting-edge research is something you want to see more of, leave a comment below!

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Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the lifelong learners in your life? Be sure to also check out 10 Ways to Be a Better Learner from Mission to Learn founder Jeff Cobb. The post Health and Learning: What the Science Says appeared first on Mission to Learn - Lifelong Learning Blog.

1. Seek Introductory Texts with Diverse Perspectives

When delving into a controversial topic, the first step is to gather introductory texts from reputable sources with diverse perspectives. This approach ensures a well-rounded understanding of the issue at hand. Avoid relying solely on one-sided materials, as they may present biased or incomplete information.

Books, academic papers, and articles from reputable publications—representing both sides of the issue—can provide a solid foundation for further exploration.

2. Compare and Contrast Arguments

Once you have identified introductory texts from different perspectives, the next step is to compare and contrast their arguments. Subject matter experts frequently use this technique to identify strengths and weaknesses in different policy proposals. By examining various viewpoints, you can identify common ground, pinpoint areas of contention, and gain a nuanced understanding of controversial topics. In practice, this can look like annotating, highlighting, or simply re-reading key passages.

3. Fact-Check and Verify Sources

In the age of misinformation, fact-checking is critical. Researchers of all kinds rely on accurate data and reputable sources to form their analyses. Take the time to verify the information presented in the texts you read. Look for credible references and develop and eye for distinguishing between reputable and predatory peer-reviewed journals.

This kind of fact-checking not only protects you from falling victim to misinformation but enhances your understanding of how quality research is conducted and disseminated.

4. Study Counterexamples in Other Countries

Policy wonks often draw on international experiences to gain insights into various policy approaches. Similarly, when exploring controversial topics, studying counterexamples in other countries can provide valuable lessons. Analyze how other nations have addressed similar issues and the outcomes of their policies.

This type of comparative analysis can highlight the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches, informing your perspective on the subject.

5. Analyze Historical Context

To truly grasp a controversial issue, it is essential to examine its historical context. Policy wonks frequently investigate past policies and their impacts to inform present-day decisions. Look into the historical evolution of the topic, including the reasons for its controversy. Understanding how the issue has developed over time can shed light on the complexities involved. (Not to mention, the resources to do so are in abundance.)

6. Follow Reputable Think Tanks and Research Institutions

Policy wonks closely follow research conducted by reputable think tanks and research institutions—even and especially ones they may disagree with. In your quest for knowledge, seek out organizations that focus on the controversial subject you are exploring. These institutions often publish reports, studies, and analyses that can be compared for their use of data and argumentative structure.

7. Stay Open-Minded and Impartial

Policy wonks approach their work with adaptability and open-mindedness. They understand that policy landscapes change, and new evidence may emerge. Similarly, as a lifelong learner, be open to updating your understanding based on new information. Embrace uncertainty and view it as an opportunity for growth rather than a weakness.

Embrace the Unknown

In a world of constant debate and complex issues, adopting strategies used by policy wonks can empower us as lifelong learners to navigate controversial topics with confidence and insight. By seeking diverse perspectives, fact-checking information, and engaging with experts and peers, we can build a comprehensive understanding of complex issues.

By learning from counterexamples and historical contexts, we gain valuable insights that enhance our ability to contribute meaningfully to discussions and make informed decisions.

As we broaden our learning journey to those hot-button issues, let us embrace open-mindedness and the willingness to adapt, enabling us to become well-informed and responsible global citizens.

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Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the lifelong learners in your life? Be sure to also check out 10 Ways to Be a Better Learner from Mission to Learn founder Jeff Cobb. The post Navigating Controversial Topics: How Policy Wonks Do It appeared first on Mission to Learn - Lifelong Learning Blog.

1. Todoist: Simplify Your Tasks

Todoist is a minimalist task manager that helps you organize your to-do list. Its clean and intuitive design allows users to create and manage tasks for every imaginable project, whether it’s personal fitness, mastering a new language, or scaling your business. Users can break down their learning goals into smaller tasks, set deadlines, and prioritize them according to their importance.

Todoist’s sync feature ensures that your tasks are always an arm’s reach away, keeping you on track whether you’re at your desk or on the go. By eliminating clutter and unnecessary features, Todoist fosters a focused approach to learning.

2. MinimaList: Color-Coded Learning

MinimaList is a digital notepad designed for those of us craving a streamlined user experience. Its minimalist interface offers a distraction-free environment, perfect for jotting down to-dos in simple color-coded lists that easily sync across devices. The emphasis on design makes it ideal for lifelong learners juggling competing priorities, from nutrition to professional development, in a helpful visual format.

All in all, MinimaList is a wonderful tool for those seeking a high level of customization in their digital life.

3. Forest: Cultivate Focus and Beat Procrastination

Procrastination is the nemesis of all learning, hindering progress and causing unnecessary stress. Forest is a unique app that uses gamification to tackle this issue. With Forest, you set a timer for your study or learning session, and a virtual tree starts growing on your screen. If you exit the app before the timer ends, your tree dies. But if you stay focused and resist distractions, you grow a beautiful forest. This simple yet powerful concept helps learners build concentration and overcome procrastination—one tree at a time!

4. AnkiApp: The Ultimate Flashcard Software

Flashcards have been a go-to study tool for decades, but AnkiApp takes the concept to the digital realm with a minimalist approach. This app enables users to create, review, and revise flashcards based on spaced repetition, a scientifically proven learning technique. But that’s not all. In addition to syncing with the cloud, the app comes with 80+ million pre-made flashcards spanning a huge range of topics. Whether you’re studying sheet music, historical events, or complex scientific concepts, AnkiApp enhances your memory retention and makes learning engaging and efficient.

5. Focus@Will: Hack Your Concentration Levels

Music can be a powerful aid for concentration and productivity, but it can also become a distraction if not chosen wisely. Focus@Will is a music software that draws on neuroscience as well as its own clinical trials to deliver curated music channels that enhance focus and creativity. Unlike regular streaming services, Focus@Will eliminates ads and unrelated content, providing learners with a conducive environment to immerse themselves in their studies. With its minimalist design and personalized playlists, this app is a valuable addition to any lifelong learner’s toolkit.

Work Smarter, Not Harder

Minimalist productivity apps offer a seamless and clutter-free approach to organizing tasks, capturing ideas, and maintaining focus. While functionality is always crucial to achieving our goals, the tenets of minimalism demonstrate that aesthetics also play an important role in our workflow. It’s a reminder that productivity is not about cramming more into your day; it’s about making each moment count.

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Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the lifelong learners in your life? Be sure to also check out 10 Ways to Be a Better Learner from Mission to Learn founder Jeff Cobb. The post 5 Top Minimalist Productivity Apps for Lifelong Learners appeared first on Mission to Learn - Lifelong Learning Blog.

But we should question that assumption.

There are, after all, so many ways in which we make ourselves unavailable for learning.

We are biased in countless ways, and these biases very often prevent us from seeing or opening up to learning opportunities

We carry “baggage” from our past that can hold us back. As Seneca put it so aptly, “No man can swim ashore and take his baggage with him.”

We are arrogant – even if unwittingly. There’s plenty of research to suggest that we often think we know more than we do and that “experts” – which all of us are in at least some areas of life – are often blinded by their expertise. We need more epistemological modesty.

We are “under the influence,” very often thinking or acting in ways that are at least partially determined by others. Read Robert Cialdini’s work to appreciate the pervasiveness of influence in our lives.

We are stuck in our routines, absorbed in what we have been told (or told ourselves) to do. We miss the gorilla in the room, so to speak, like here and here.

There’s no easy answer to any of this. Humans are going to be humans.

Still, change and improvement start with consciousness, and one clear path to consciousness is to make it a habit to ask ourselves periodically, every day, “Am I truly available to learn?”

Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the lifelong learners in your life? Be sure to also check out 10 Ways to Be a Better Learner from Mission to Learn founder Jeff Cobb. The post Are you truly available to learn? appeared first on Mission to Learn - Lifelong Learning Blog.

Let’s explore some of the best foods to improve memory and boost cognitive performance. After that, we’ll survey some of the best supplements for brain health—especially for every high-functioning learner.

Foods for Boosting our Brain

While we’ll get to supplements in a minute, at Mission to Learn, we’re advocates of meeting your nutritional needs with real food to the greatest extent possible. Here are some of the top dietary choices to help boost learning.

Fatty Fish

Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health. Omega-3s are critical components of the cell membranes in our brains, which play a role in communication between brain cells. Research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids can improve memory, mood, and cognitive function. While omega-3s tend to be most bio-available in marine sources like fatty fish, other include walnuts, flaxseed, and chia seeds. (More on fish as a brain food here.)

Blueberries

Blueberries contain antioxidants, which can protect the brain from stress and inflammation. Clinical trials suggest that treating blueberries as a dietary supplement can improve memory and cognitive function, especially in older adults. And for those who enjoy an occasional fruit salad, other sources of antioxidants include strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, collard greens, asparagus, and broccoli are rich in vitamins and minerals. Among their many benefits, these vegetables contain folate, a kind of B vitamin essential for mental clarity. While a folate deficiency has been linked to a variety of illnesses, incorporating these veggies into your diet will be sure to boost mental performance.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds can be a great treat for maintaining a healthy brain. As good sources of vitamin E, they also contain an antioxidant that protects the brain from oxidative stress—a fancy term for cell damage. As such, snacking on almonds, sunflower seeds, and hazelnuts can be a great way to improve mental clarity.

Whole Grains

Whole grains such as oats, quinoa, and brown rice are a good source of complex carbohydrates, in addition to other nutrients. These carbohydrates provide a steady supply of glucose to the brain, a primary source of energy. A review of numerous studies even revealed the nutrients within whole grains have played a significant role in boosting cognitive performance and protecting against neurological disease.

How About Vitamins for Brain Health?

In addition to a healthy diet, certain vitamins can improve memory and mental clarity and – by extension – boost learning. While there’s mixed evidence that supplements impact our cognitive performance, it’s still helpful to know how they function—and, ideally, aim to get them from the foods we eat.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 is essential for brain health as it is involved in the production of neurotransmitters, making it acutely fascinating to researchers interested in how to improve memory and mental clarity. As a vitamin responsible for a variety of physiological and neurological health benefits, it plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of cognitive decline.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is another essential vitamin for brain health. It is involved in the production of myelin, which is the insulation around nerve fibers and one of the key sources of long-term memory. Research has shown that a deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to cognitive impairment and dementia, making it a crucial component of high-functioning cognition.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for cognitive performance as it helps regulate the absorption of calcium, which is critical for the function of nerve cells. What’s more, the vitamin has been studied for its positive influence on neurological health, especially with the formation of new memories. While we all know that getting some sun on our skin is a great source of Vitamin D, what you may not have considered is that this same vitamin is one of the best supplements for a healthy mind.

Nurturing Our Brains for Lifelong Learning

The research is still evolving on which kinds of nutrition, supplements, and other lifestyle changes are best for brain health. And yet there seems to be conclusive evidence that a few age-old maxims still hold true for staying in peak mental shape: Eat your veggies. Be sure to seek out protein. And whole grain bread is always better than that bleached white Wonder Bread we all see at the grocery store.

The only crucial piece of advice that’s missing here is the other indispensable maxim that exercise plays a crucial role in staying fit – and can also be a powerful aid to learning.

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Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the lifelong learners in your life? Be sure to also check out 10 Ways to Be a Better Learner from Mission to Learn founder Jeff Cobb. The post Top Nutrition Habits to Boost Learning appeared first on Mission to Learn - Lifelong Learning Blog.

1. Google News

Google News is perhaps the most well-known news aggregator, and for good reason. It’s incredibly easy to use and allows users to personalize their news feeds based on their interests. The site uses machine learning algorithms to curate stories, making sure that users get the most relevant news first. Google News also offers a “Full Coverage” feature, which presents various perspectives on a particular story.

One of the biggest advantages of Google News is that it sources content from thousands of publishers, ranging from major news outlets to local publications. The result is access to a wide array of perspectives and opinions, making it easier to get a more complete picture of what’s happening in the world.

2. Flipboard

Flipboard is another popular news aggregator that’s been around since 2010. Like other aggregators, users can choose from a wide range of topics and sources, and the app will curate news feeds based on your preferences. It also offers a social aspect, allowing you to share stories with friends and see what others are reading.

Notably, Flipboard is known for its visually appealing layout. Each story is accompanied by images in a scrollable format, much like a physical publication. This makes it the perfect app for those who miss the visceral experience of flipping through a hardcopy newspaper.

3. Feedly

If you enjoy customization, Feedly may be the news aggregator for you – and it’s a Mission to Learn favorite. Users can choose from a range of themes, layouts, and font sizes, making it easy to create a news feed that suits your preferences.

But that’s not all. Like most aggregators, Feedly allows you to subscribe to websites and blogs you’re interested in order to create a curated news feed. Yet it does so entirely through RSS feeds, a unique if somewhat forgotten avenue for accessing content online. As Yair Rosenberg of The Atlantic recently reminded us:

As long as we rely on social-media sites to curate what we read, we allow them to control what we read, and their interests are not our interests. Fortunately, there already exists a long-standing alternative that provides users with what social media does not deliver: RSS.

Rosenberg goes on to describe the many benefits of escaping the algorithmic biases of conventional social media in order to engage in some self-curation. Case in point: if you’re looking for a highly customizable way to stay informed, give Feedly a try.

4. PressReader

One of the best news apps on the market is PressReader. In exchange for a monthly subscription, you can say goodbye to paywalls. By subscribing to publications on behalf of its customers, PressReader gets you access to top publications like The Guardian, LA Times, Newsweek, and Forbes.

Add to this an accessible user interface that can be shared across multiple devices, and PressReader appears as one of the most professionally designed news aggregators out there.

5. Apple News

Apple News is a smart news app that closely mimics Google News in that it uses certain algorithms to curate news feeds based on a user’s interests. But one way in which it excels lies in its ability to personalize news feeds based on your reading habits. The app will learn what types of stories you gravitate towards and present more of that content over time, making customization less of a hassle.

The only downside to the app is its obvious limitation of only being available on Apple devices. That said, its monthly subscription is significantly more affordable than PressReader.

6. Reddit

This list wouldn’t be complete without a mention of what some have called “the front page of the internet.” While it may not be a news app, per se, Reddit is one of the oldest and best websites for aggregated online content. It takes some getting used to, but the dividends are high for those who are on the search for an aggregator that also functions as an online community.

Unlike some of the previously mentioned services, Reddit is nothing if not democratic. Through a system of “upvotes” and “downvotes” users collaboratively decide on the significance of content. The result is a real-time barometer of public opinion on news stories, as well as a lively comment section attached to each post.

However, Reddit’s true value comes from its eclecticism. Through the use of “subreddits,” the site offers specific pages for every imaginable topic—from electoral politics to your favorite band to niche academic debates. The result is a truly bottomless rabbit hole of content.

Happy aggregating!

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Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the lifelong learners in your life? Be sure to also check out 10 Ways to Be a Better Learner from Mission to Learn founder Jeff Cobb. The post 6 Best News Aggregators for Staying Informed appeared first on Mission to Learn - Lifelong Learning Blog.

But your search for knowledge shouldn’t stop at Udemy.

Several alternatives to Udemy offer superior courses in specialized fields, allowing you to take the next step in your mission to learn.

So, in this article, we’ll share some of our favorite Udemy alternatives where you can find the highest quality online courses taught by experts from around the world.

Let’s dive in.

This article is for people who want to take online courses. Interested in creating online course on Udemy? See this article on Udemy alternatives to sell online courses.

Quick Verdict

Let me quickly share my top Udemy alternatives before diving deeper.

Skillshare – Best overall Udemy alternative

CreativeLive – Best for live creative courses

Coursera – Best Udemy alternative for degree programs

DataCamp – Best for AI and machine learning courses

HubSpot Academy – Best for online marketing courses.

How did we reach this conclusion? I’ll explain that in the rest of the article and share several other excellent Udemy alternatives worth trying.

What Is Udemy?

With over 210K online courses taught by 70K+ instructors in 75 languages to more than 60 million students worldwide, Udemy is the largest and most active online course marketplace.

No matter what you want to learn, you’ll find a course about it on Udemy, as it lists thousands of video courses in categories like programming, design, business, marketing, psychology, personal development, creative art, and productivity.

Besides offering an unlimited range of online courses, Udemy’s other major strength is its affordability. Most courses on the platform are priced between $13 to $50. However, there are some higher-priced programs as well.

Udemy courses aren’t degree programs to turn you into experts. Instead, they are training programs on very specific topics allowing you to quickly acquire the skills you need to progress in your career or achieve a learning goal.

For example, here’s a photography course tailored for real estate marketers with over 17 hours of video lectures.

So, if you’re new to online education or want to explore the fundamentals of a subject, Udemy is an excellent platform to start your eLearning journey.

Why Should Students Look For Udemy Alternatives?

Udemy is hugely popular among online learners and gets over 100 million monthly visitors. But that doesn’t mean it’s perfect. If I could sum up Udemy’s weaknesses in one word, it would be “inconsistent”.

Here are some reasons to look for Udemy alternatives as your knowledge and experience grow in a particular subject.

Content Quality

Udemy has pretty loose instructor recruitment criteria, allowing almost anyone to create and sell online courses as long as they meet the platform’s minimum requirements. As a result, Udemy courses lack consistency in content quality. For example, some Udemy courses are world-class, like Seth Godin’s freelancer course.

Source

But there are numerous low-quality courses that offer little practical value.

Learning Experience

Udemy offers standalone courses helpful in getting a mid-level understanding of a topic. But it doesn’t provide learning tracks, like many of its alternatives, that help you achieve bigger learning goals and specialize in your desired skills.

Credibility And Acceptance

Udemy courses are not accredited by any university or professional/academic institution. So, they’re great for learning new skills but might not add too much weight to your professional profile.

Cost

Udemy courses are cheap. But the costs can quickly add up if you buy multiple courses or regularly enroll in new programs. In comparison, many Udemy alternatives charge a flat monthly subscription fee allowing you to access as many courses as you want.

The Best Udemy Alternatives For Learning New Skills Online

Let’s now discuss the alternatives to Udemy you can use to enroll in online courses and degree programs.

These aren’t identical Udemy alternatives. But all of them enable you to learn new skills and acquire knowledge through e-learning, which is Udemy’s core offer as well.

Udemy Alternative #1: Coursera

If you want to enroll in online degree programs from Arizona State University, the University Of Oxford, the University Of Illinois, and many other world-class academic institutions, Coursera is an ideal platform.

It offers over 5000 free and paid online courses by Google, IBM, Salesforce, and Meta, along with complete certification and degree programs from some of the world’s top universities.

Unlike Udemy, Coursera allows you to specialize in programming, business management, project management, supply chain, artificial intelligence (AI), psychology, marketing, and numerous other fields.

It offers complete learning tracks designed to help beginners start from scratch and become subject matter experts.

If you only want to acquire skills, you can enroll in most Coursera programs for free. However, you must pay a fee for a course completion certificate or degree. What’s more, it even offers financial assistance for specific programs if you can’t afford the tuition fee.

Udemy Alternative #2: CreativeLive

CreativeLive is a dedicated online learning platform for creative professionals and artists. It contains 2000+ recorded video courses by more than 700 renowned experts like Tim Ferris, Richard Branson, and Daymond John on subjects like photography, music, creative design, productivity, videography, money & finance, and many more.

CreativeLive’s course content is not only superior to Udemy because it is taught by real-world experts but also because of its high production quality. CreativeLive shoots its video courses in-house and creates professional content comparable to Netflix documentaries.

Here’s a quick preview of a CreativeLive course to give you an idea of what I’m saying.

CreativeLive uses a subscription pricing model where you can access its course library for as low as $12.45/month. But you can watch any course for free when it’s broadcast live on the platform.

In short, if you’re a creative professional looking to enhance your skills or a hobbyist wanting to learn from the best in the business, CreativeLive is the perfect platform.

Udemy Alternative #3: Mindvalley

Mindvalley is one of my favorite online learning platforms because of its unique content. Unlike most other eLearning companies, Mindvalley focuses mainly on mental health, personal well-being, confidence, and spirituality.

Mindvalley calls its courses “Quests,” designed to deliver lessons in small, manageable chunks over a specified period. It helps students form habits and allows them to apply the learnings in their daily lives.

It offers HD video courses carefully designed by some of the world’s best educators, therapists, meditation experts, and consultants. Mindvalley uses group learning in its live courses allowing the students to build relationships, share ideas, and grow together.

But you can also access lecture recordings and on-demand content from 100+ Mindvalley programs by subscribing for $24.9/month.

Udemy Alternative #4: Skillshare

Skillshare is probably the closest Udemy alternative for students looking to enhance their skills by taking specific online courses. However, you can consider it a significantly upgraded version of Udemy because the quality of Skillshare’s courses is considerably higher.

Still, it’s among the top online learning marketplaces where you can find courses on coding, productivity, design, architecture, communication, business, marketing, and many other subjects.

Skillshare’s content guidelines are pretty well-defined. So, most of the courses on the platform have excellent production and content quality.

But, Skillshare has an “Originals” series it produces in-house with thought leaders and exceptionally talented creators, which has even better quality.

Apart from standalone courses, Skillshare offers detailed learning tracks allowing you to plan your learning goals and become certified experts in your chosen fields.

And the best part? Skillshare has an affordable annual subscription plan starting from just $24/year. Considering the thousands of high-quality courses on Skillshare, from coding to design, this subscription fee is a steal.

Udemy Alternative #5: LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda)

LinkedIn Learning is another excellent Udemy alternative because of the thousands of courses it offers in dozens of different categories, including technology, productivity, management, marketing, eCommerce, digital marketing, and business communication.

LinkedIn Learning, previously Lynda.com, stands out for its high-quality video courses by experts and seasoned professionals in different subjects.

You can access its course library for a monthly subscription or purchase individual courses for a one-time fee, depending on your learning needs.

Since it is connected to your LinkedIn profile, LinkedIn Learning gives you tailored online course recommendations depending on your qualifications and the skills you need to level up your career.

LinkedIn Learning is worth checking out if you’re looking for solid corporate online courses taught by proven experts.

Udemy Alternative #6: Domestika

If you’re a creative soul and want to polish your skills by learning from the world’s best artists, musicians, photographers, illustrators, and designers, you’ll fall in love with Domestika.

It started in 2011 as a creative online learning platform for the Spanish audience. But over the years, it has evolved into a global eLearning platform with over 10,000 HD video courses in English and Spanish by renowned artists and creative professionals.

Domestika stands out for its content’s production quality and unique course topics. You’ll find brilliant courses about sketching, matte painting, animal photography, visual perception, and numerous other topics by people who’ve been practicing their art for decades.

You can access Domestika’s content in two ways:

• Pay per course (anywhere between $9 to $99)
• Become a member ($6.99/month)

So, if you’re looking for creative online courses, Domestika might be a better option than Udemy.

Udemy Alternative #7: Hubspot Academy

If you’re an online marketer or want to learn the fundamentals of inbound marketing, HubSpot Academy is the first place you should go.

It contains over 1000 HD video courses by expert content marketers, email marketers, social media strategists, and entrepreneurs to equip you with the skills to grow a business with online marketing.

HubSpot Academy has two course categories – short courses and certification courses.

The certification courses consist of multiple modules, including tests and quizzes, and grant you a completion certificate when you pass the final assessment. These certificates are widely recognized in the online marketing industry and add credibility to your professional profile.

In addition, all certification courses are regularly updated, which is why the certified students must renew their qualifications every year.

Apart from digital marketing courses, HubSpot Academy also offers creative writing, storytelling, customer experience, customer service, and lead generation.

Udemy Alternative #8: Semrush Academy

If you want to learn Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and digital marketing from the best in the business, Semrush Academy is the perfect place for you.

Semrush is the world’s leading market research, search analysis, and competitor insights tool that recently acquired Backlinko, a leading SEO publication, to revive its online education content.

In partnership with Brian Dean, Backlinko’s founder, Semrush Academy now offers 50+ world-class HD video courses on on-page, off-page, and technical SEO, content marketing strategy, email marketing, Pay Per Click (PPC) marketing, brand strategy, online reputation management, and various other digital marketing topics.

The courses on Semrush Academy are taught by marketers at the forefront of everything happening in the SEO industry. This not only makes these courses valuable but ensures that you get to hear the most effective SEO and digital marketing strategies directly from the experts.

Udemy Alternative #9: Shopify Learn

There’s no bigger eCommerce platform than Shopify.

And this makes Shopify Learn a fantastic place for anyone looking to understand the fundamentals of eCommerce, start an online store, and venture into different eCommerce business models like dropshipping and private labeling.

It contains dozens of short and modular courses taught by hugely successful eCommerce marketers, influencers, and entrepreneurs.

For example, the Facebook advertising course on Shopify Learn is taught by Ezra Firestone, a well-known marketer running multiple seven-figure online stores.

All Shopify Learn courses are free, and you only need to create a Shopify account to access them. These courses contain much more valuable, credible, and actionable information about eCommerce and online marketing than most courses on Udemy.

So, if you want to learn eCommerce marketing from scratch, enroll now.

Udemy Alternative #10: Codecademy

Codecademy makes coding, programming, and tech education accessible and understandable for beginners and people looking to switch careers.

It contains hundreds of free and premium courses covering every aspect of computer programming and all skill levels. You can find courses on Python, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, SQL, and many other languages and frameworks.

Codecademy not only provides you with learning resources but also guides you toward your ideal career path in tech. If you’re unsure where to start, take Codecademy’s quiz to get tailored recommendations according to your interest and qualification.

While many fundamental programming courses are free on Codecademy, you’ll need to subscribe to a premium plan (starting from $13.99/month) to access the more advanced courses and learning tracks.

Udemy Alternative #11: DataCamp

DataCamp is a dedicated platform for online courses on AI, machine learning, and everything related to data sciences. With more than 11 million students worldwide, Datacamp is the perfect place for anyone looking to enhance skills and build expertise in Python, SQL, ChatGPT, and anything related to data engineering.

Instead of offering standalone courses, DataCamp has learning tracks designed to help students build specific skill sets or prepare for different career positions. So even if you’ve no clue about data sciences, you can choose the beginner learning track and start from the fundamentals of data sciences all the way to its advanced modules.

Considering we live in the AI age, the skills you get from DataCamp can place you among the top 10% of professionals with the relevant data skills organizations look for worldwide.

The best part? You can access everything DataCamp offers for just $9.11/month.

Udemy Alternative #12: edX

edX was founded by Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 2012 to make modern skills and knowledge accessible to everyone. So, you can be sure about the quality of their content and online courses.

Currently, edX offers over 4000 courses, certifications, and degree programs in various disciplines by the world’s top universities, corporations, and academic institutions.

edX has hundreds of free courses along with premium certifications and degree programs for a certain fee.

If you want to enhance your skills and qualifications in management, marketing, coding, architecture, design, or any other professional field, edX is worth checking out.

Udemy Alternative #13: FutureLearn

FutureLearn is another online platform where you can purchase online courses, follow learning tracks, get micro-credentials, or enroll in complete degree programs from some of the world’s most reputable academic institutions.

All courses are taught by professionals and university professors, meaning the content quality is always top-notch.

FutureLearn differs from other online learning platforms because it focuses on group learning. So whether you sign up for a short course or a micro-credential, you’ll have several coursemates and a community group to interact with your peers and share ideas.

You can access FutureLearn for a monthly subscription fee or by purchasing standalone courses or learning programs.

Udemy Alternative #14: Great Learning

Great Learning offers online courses and degree programs in AI, machine learning, coding, design, product development, and management by the world’s leading universities.

Think of it as edX for tech education.

However, Great Learning’s main strength is professional online degree programs spread over 6 months to 2 years in various universities.

These programs are conducted live in a classroom environment with groups of students. They also include regular class assignments, projects, quizzes, and assessments.

Great Learning also has an online course library containing several hundred free online courses. But they’re not as comprehensive as some other options on this list.

Udemy Alternative #15: Udacity

Udacity is among the top online learning platforms for tech skills. It offers on-demand courses, nano degree programs, and full-length learning tracks to help you acquire and enhance your skills in digital marketing, AI, cybersecurity, product design, product management, and other tech-related topics.

Udacity was founded by former Google executive Sebastian Thrun. The platform stands out for its latest and frequently updated courses taught by some of the brightest minds in the tech industry.

Most of its courses are designed in-house with specific learning goals for students. So, it’s not as affordable as some of the other options on this list.

However, it does offer different discounts and scholarships for students and professionals meeting their criteria.

Udemy Alternative #16: Google Digital Garage

Google is synonymous with innovation and is leading the charge everywhere, from AI, online search, advertising, and numerous other areas.

So, what better place to learn new skills than Google’s own academy?

At Google Digital Garage, you can start as a total newbie by learning the fundamentals of online marketing, eCommerce, SEO, and coding. Its courses are intentionally designed for beginners using simple terminologies, low-complexity examples, and a limited learning scope.

It will help you prepare for more advanced courses, and learning tracks that some of the other platforms in this list offer.

Udemy Alternative #17: Masterclass

Imagine learning how to cook under Gordon Ramsey’s wings or environmental conservation directly from Dr. Jane Goodall.

Masterclass makes this possible by helping you learn from over 180 globally renowned experts in diverse fields like cooking, social sciences, personal branding, media, arts, sports, and wellness.

Shot in-house in the highest production quality, Masterclass courses are bite-sized lessons that deliver specific knowledge directly from the world’s best.

Considering the value Masterclass offers, its monthly subscription fee of $15/month is almost too good to be true.

What Udemy Alternatives Will You Try?

Udemy’s biggest strength is that it’s an open marketplace where you can learn from anyone for a small fee. However, that’s also its biggest weakness. This is why almost all the Udemy alternatives we’ve discussed focus on specific fields instead of mastering all subjects. Still, Udemy is a valuable platform for anyone just beginning their online learning journey. But once you know your direction, use one of these alternatives to specialize in your field and become a real expert.

Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the lifelong learners in your life? Be sure to also check out 10 Ways to Be a Better Learner from Mission to Learn founder Jeff Cobb. The post 17 Udemy Alternatives To Learn New Skills With Online Courses appeared first on Mission to Learn - Lifelong Learning Blog.

Beyond the joy of creating beautiful melodies, research suggests that engaging in musical activities can keep your mind nimble and vibrant, contributing to overall cognitive well-being. In this post, we will explore the top five reasons why playing an instrument can boost brain health and keep your mind young.

1. Mental Stimulation

Learning and playing an instrument engages multiple areas of the brain simultaneously. From deciphering musical notes to coordinating finger movements and rhythm, the brain receives a comprehensive workout. This mental stimulation promotes the growth of neural connections and strengthens existing pathways, effectively keeping your mind sharp. Regularly challenging your brain in this way can improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, all of which are essential for maintaining a youthful and agile mind.

2. Cognitive Reserve

Playing an instrument has been linked to the concept of “cognitive reserve,” which refers to the brain’s ability to adapt and function effectively despite age-related changes or brain damage. Research suggests that individuals who actively engage in musical activities build a higher cognitive reserve, making them more resilient against cognitive decline and age-related diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s. By continuously challenging your brain with the complexities of playing an instrument, you’re essentially building a fortress of cognitive protection that can keep your mind young and resilient.

3. Enhanced Multi-sensory Integration:

When you play an instrument, you’re not only relying on auditory cues but also engaging other senses like touch and sight. For example, a pianist reads sheet music, feels the keys beneath their fingers, and listens to the sound produced simultaneously. This multisensory integration is a powerful tool for brain plasticity, allowing different regions of the brain to communicate and collaborate effectively. As a result, musicians often demonstrate enhanced sensory processing, improved hand-eye coordination, and heightened attention to detail. These skills not only benefit musical performance but also carry over into other aspects of life, helping to maintain a youthful and agile mind.

4. Stress Relief and Emotional Well-being

Music has long been recognized as a potent mood regulator, capable of evoking a wide range of emotions. When you play an instrument, you tap into the therapeutic power of music, providing an outlet for self-expression and emotional release. The act of playing can alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression by promoting the release of endorphins and reducing the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. By fostering emotional well-being and reducing the negative effects of chronic stress, playing an instrument contributes to a youthful mindset and a more vibrant outlook on life.

5. Social Engagement and Neuroplasticity

Playing an instrument often involves collaborating with others, joining bands or orchestras, or participating in music lessons and workshops. These social interactions provide a rich environment for lifelong learning and growth. Engaging in musical activities with others not only stimulates your brain through active communication and coordination but also fosters social connections and a sense of belonging. Research has shown that this particular kind of auditory play promotes neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new connections. This, in turn, keeps your mind agile and adaptable, key attributes of a youthful and vibrant cognitive state.

Playing an instrument is a delightful and rewarding activity that goes beyond the realm of music itself. The benefits it offers to the mind are numerous and profound. By stimulating the brain, building cognitive reserve, enhancing multi-sensory integration, promoting emotional well-being, and fostering social engagement, playing an instrument becomes a powerful tool for keeping your mind young. So, whether you’re an accomplished musician or just starting your journey, it’s never too late to pick up an instrument. Embrace the sense of accomplishment that comes with mastering a musical piece.

From Theory to Practice

The easiest way to implement this kind of habit would be to incorporate regular practice sessions into your routine. Set aside dedicated time to immerse yourself in the world of music, allowing your mind to be fully engaged and challenged. Remember, the process of learning an instrument is a lifelong journey, and each step along the way contributes to the preservation of a youthful mind.

What’s more, don’t be afraid to explore different genres and experiment with various instruments. Whether it’s a piano, guitar, or drum set, the benefits of playing a musical instrument apply to a variety of contexts. And if you’re unsure where to start, consider an online course, where a virtual instructor can guide you through the fundamentals at a comfortable pace.

So, if you’re looking for a way to keep your mind young and vibrant, consider the benefits of learning an instrument. From basic brain health to stress relief to creative expression, the advantages are unparalleled.

Image by geralt from Pixabay.

Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the lifelong learners in your life? Be sure to also check out 10 Ways to Be a Better Learner from Mission to Learn founder Jeff Cobb. The post The Fountain of Youth? 5 Benefits of Learning an Instrument appeared first on Mission to Learn - Lifelong Learning Blog.

But can you trust all the hype?

While it would be easy to speculate about the impacts of artificial intelligence on economic life, it’s still far from clear whether a chatbot could steal your job.

As discussed in a previous post, calling a chatbot like ChatGPT artificially intelligent is a debatable claim. While it’s an excellent example of machine learning, it also comes with some limitations.

That said, it’s services like a chatbot that could automate a variety of mundane tasks in various industries—from manufacturing and healthcare to finance and customer service. This leads us to the question everyone is asking: how might AI-driven automation impact employment in the near future?

The Impact of AI on the Job Market

While AI is likely to have a significant impact on the job market, the possibility of it stealing your job anytime soon is pretty low—at least relative to current anxiety around the issue.

As future of work expert Nahia Orduña has written, automation can often eat up important jobs, but it can also create new ones in the process. As a result, it is likely to change the nature of work, the skills required for different professions, and the way economic life is organized. As Orduña puts it:

The more computers are trained to conduct high-repetitive tasks that are often assigned to entry-level employees, the more roles focused on complex tasks with competitive salaries will arise in their place. This means that young professionals may have a wider range of interesting careers to choose from.

Another way to think about this would be to say that today’s occupations are always evolving. According to a recent report by Goldman Sachs, “60% of workers are in occupations that did not exist in 1940.” In other words, when we focus on automation as a sign of mass unemployment, we fixate on only one piece of what is typically a much larger transformation in economic life.

That said, there are certain industries that will be disproportionately impacted, especially those that involve routine tasks. For example, AI-powered chatbots can answer customer queries and provide support, reducing the need for human customer service representatives. Similarly, AI-powered content creation tools can generate written content, reducing the need for human writers.

On the flip side, this reduction in repetitive work, may make room for a new surge in demand for the development and maintenance of AI-powered systems such as data analysis, programming, and more advanced forms of content development. This would entail a shift towards a much more technologically literate workforce. But it also could mean workers would be free to focus on more creative tasks.

For example, AI can automate data entry, allowing researchers to focus on designing experiments and interpreting results. Similarly, AI-powered content creation tools—like the increasingly popular platform Copy.ai—can free up writers to focus on more creative aspects of content creation, such as ideation and strategy.

Learning with AI

While AI will continue to change the way we work, the ways we choose to prepare for these changes will determine much of our personal and professional success. The good news, however, is that much of this preparation looks a lot like the kind of lifelong learning we discuss on this site.

Here are some basic steps that professionals—and anyone interested in embracing the future, rather than running from it—can take to prepare for the age of AI. (Hint: a growth mindset will take you far!)

Invest in Continuous Learning

While it may seem obvious, continuous learning is essential for staying up to date with any cutting-edge technology and its ripple effects. But what does this look like? Aside from attending events, enrolling in online courses, collaborating with experts, and staying up to date on the latest research, one of the most lasting forms of continuous learning is embedding yourself in a broader community of learners with shared interests. This might look like a MeetUp group, professional association, or some other social gathering. The point is, learning with others is often how we learn best.

Develop Technology Skills

While not everyone needs to be a coder, it’s been clear since well before AI reached its current level that nearly all work is becoming more technology dependent. Consistently investing to boost your technology skills is almost certain to pay off in both the short run and the long run.

Even if you don’t actually want or need to be a programmer, learning some coding skills can help with understand how current technology works and how to troubleshoot simple technical issues. And, of course, there are now tons of options for learning basic coding online. (Check out some of the course providers covered here.)

Basic digital media production is also an area where most of us can benefit from acquiring some basic skills. While this may sound intimidating, it’s really just a fancy way of describing the process of developing any kind of digital content—be it visual art, presentations, videos, manuscripts, animations, audio, and more.

The good news here is that there are more and more sites—like Canva—which provide user-friendly tools for anyone to build whatever content they need. What’s more, getting familiar with this kind of media production may not directly help you understand today’s tech world, but it will certainly help in understanding how much of today’s AI-driven content has as much to do with data visualization as it does pure information.

Cultivate Creativity

While AI-driven chatbots like ChatGPT may be automating a lot of repetitive work, it still requires some kind of input from its users. In other words, the information you share with a chatbot can make or break its helpfulness. Prompts can fall flat without the right wording, or even produce misleading content. For many in the tech world, this places an even higher premium on creativity. The growing profession of “prompt engineers” epitomizes this trend.

So what’s the lesson here? While AI may become a crucial assistant in many workplaces, it will still require those with the creativity and astuteness to ask it the right questions. For anyone out there with an interest in AI-driven trends, creativity is becoming an increasingly sought-after skill.

A New Era of Disruption?

While AI-driven disruption is certainly a trend worth paying attention to in our high-tech world, it remains unclear how disruptive it really will be.

So far, it’s hard to differentiate between real innovation and media buzz. One thing is for sure though: AI is an unprecedented tool for artists, writers, managers, students, and so many others. Ultimately, the key to success in the age of AI will be to remain curious and adaptable.

Image by Computerizer from Pixabay

Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the lifelong learners in your life? Be sure to also check out 10 Ways to Be a Better Learner from Mission to Learn founder Jeff Cobb. The post Is AI Going to Steal My Job? appeared first on Mission to Learn - Lifelong Learning Blog.

The reality is that the level of learning machines are now able to achieve – and the “intelligence” that learning produces – is going to require a lot more learning by human beings if we want to successfully navigate the uncertainties of an AI-driven future.

Fortunately, AI itself can help turbo charge human learning and ChatGPT is one of the best tools it has offered so far for the average human. So, in this article, we’ll take a look at what ChatGPT is and – with the help of ChatGPT itself – consider some ways it can support lifelong learning.

What is ChatGPT?

Let’s start with a look at what ChatGPT is and what it’s not.

Some describe it as artificial intelligence, others as a chatbot. When asked to describe itself, ChatGPT replied that it was “a large language model” that’s been “trained on a vast amount of data using deep learning techniques to understand and generate human-like language.”

But what does this mean?

Without diving too deeply into contemporary computer science, the short answer is that ChatGPT is a set of algorithms, designed by the tech company OpenAI, that analyze a large body of information. Currently, this includes everything on the internet prior to September 2021, or roughly 45 terrabytes.

By doing this, the program assembles a vast trove of information and teaches itself how to generate human-like responses to prompts it is fed. (The “G” in GPT stands for “generative.”) This is possible through a process computer scientists call machine learning , a specific kind of program that continually trains itself on new data, including the kinds of questions it receives from users. In combination with natural languge processing (NLP), machine learning can produce outputs that feel like a response from a human being.

For the average user, this means you can type in questions or ask ChatGPT to perform a specific task – like research or even writing computer code – and the program the program will respond. If the response is not quite you were looking for, you can continue to ask questions or give directions and the program will refine and update its response.

Because most users do, in fact, “chat” with ChatGPT, it is fair to call it a chat bot. That said, because of the sophistication of its machine learning and NLP underpinnings, it is much more intelligent than the chat bots any of us have encountered previously. That doesn’t mean it is perfect – there are significant shortcomings, and we’ll cover some of them shortly – but the benefits to anyone on a mission to learn are enormous.

The Benefits of ChatGPT for Lifelong Learning

One of the best ways to understand how ChatGPT can help lifelong learners is to consider the range of tasks and activities where it can play a role. As it turns out, generating that kind of list is exactly the sort of thing that ChatGPT can do well – and that’s exactly what I asked it to do. In the text that follows, the prompts I gave to ChatGPT are in bold, the responses are bulleted and/or in italics. Where relevant, I have hot linked text to resources on Mission to Learn.

(Note: To do this, I actually used the chat function of Jasper.ai, which is ChatGPT-based. I use Jasper because I like having a fuller set of AI tools than ChatGPT alone offers.)

Outline at least five ways in which ChatGPT could be used as a tool for lifelong learning

• It can be used to quickly research topics with accurate and up-to-date information, allowing users to explore various subjects in more depth.
• It can provide guidance and feedback on user projects, allowing them to refine and improve their work.
• It can be used as a language learning tool, allowing users to improve their communication skills by conversing with an AI in the language they are practicing.
• It can act as a study partner, helping users to build better understanding of the material they are learning through interactive dialogue.
• It can help users develop their problem solving abilities by posing challenging questions that require creative solutions.

What are five additional ways ChatGPT might be used for lifelong learning?

• It can be used to facilitate collaboration and discussion with others who are studying similar topics.
• It can provide users with tailored content and recommendations based on their interests and level of knowledge.
• It can provide personalized career guidance to help users identify potential job opportunities and develop their professional skills.
• It can be used as a virtual tutor, allowing users to ask for guidance on difficult concepts and receive prompt feedback.
• It can act as an accountability partner by setting reminders, providing encouragement, and tracking progress towards educational goals.

Are there any other ways that ChatGPT could be used for lifelong learning?

• It can be used to simulate scenarios in order to prepare for real life situations, such as job interviews and public speaking engagements.
• It can be used to monitor user performance and track progress over time.
• It can act as a sounding board for eliciting feedback from peers and mentors on various topics related to personal development and education.
• It can provide users with self-assessment tools to help them identify areas of strength and weaknesses in their knowledge base.
• It can suggest new resources, books, podcasts, articles, etc., that might be helpful in the learning process.

Is that all? Surely there must be other ways that ChatGPT could be useful for lifelong learning. What are some other ways?

• It can be used to customize study plans and strategies based on individual learning goals and preferences.
• It can be used to generate personalized flashcard sets for review and memorization of key concepts.
• It can offer study games or interactive challenges to practice application of knowledge and reinforce comprehension.
• It can provide personalized resources, such as videos and podcasts, tailored to the user’s level of understanding.
• It can suggest tracks or courses of study intended to supplement current studies with additional materials related to the topic.

Thanks. In summary, what is it that makes ChatGPT such a powerful tool for lifelong learning?

ChatGPT is a powerful tool for lifelong learning due to its ability to customize study plans, generate personalized flashcards, offer interactive challenges and review games, provide tailored resources and suggest tracks or courses of study. The AI models behind ChatGPT also allow users to practice scenarios in order to prepare for real life situations, monitor user performance, identify areas of strength and weaknesses in their knowledge base, get feedback from peers and mentors on various topics, and find new resources that can be helpful in the learning process.

Of course, like most humans, ChatGPT is thinking in terms of traditional education and training in many of the responses above when most of the power of GPT is likely to be felt in much less formal activities that support learning in the flow of life and work – with search being the main one. (Which is why Microsoft moved very rapidly to incorporate GPT into Bing.)

Even so, the responses make it clear that ChatGPT can be a very powerful tool for the average lifelong learner. So, what are the downsides?

The Downsides of ChatGPT

As powerful as it is, there are still quite a few downsides to ChatGPT. We’ll just cover some of the big ones here.

It doesn’t really know the truth

First, as Ezra Klein and Gary Marcus discuss in this recommended episode of the Ezra Klein show, GPT can’t really determine the truth of content.

More than that, ChatGPT and other forms of AI are prone to “hallucinations” – basically, giving confident but false responses that are not justified by the data it has been trained on. So, you pretty much have to use good critical thinking skills and double check the validity of the output you get when using ChatGPT – and there is no guarantee that the average user will do this.

It could perpetuate biases

Because ChatGPT cannot always determine what is true, because it was created by human beings who inevitably introduce their own biases, and because it is used by human beings who consciously or unconsciously bring their biases to it, ChatGPT is capable of creating highly biased content at scale. Again, critical thinking is, well, critical when using ChatGPT.

It could be used to spread misinformation

While clearly related to the first two items, this one deserves to be called out on its own just given how pervasive misinformation has become in recent years. ChatGPT is a powerful content production engine, and in the wrong hands, can easily be used to generate and disseminate a high volume of content specifically intended to mislead people. The situation has supposedly gotten better with the release of GPT-4, which is less likely to respond to prompts for negative content or provide non-factual responses, but it remains a significant concern.

It may increase social divides

Currently, there is a free version of ChatGPT, but OpenAI has already introduced a paid version that offers more benefits to those who can afford it. Like so many technologies, ChatGPT and other forms of AI are likely to create outsized benefits for those who are in the privileged position of receiving high quality training and getting access to the latest and best applications.  

It could negatively disrupt traditional education

While it’s clear (at least to me) that ChatGPT could be a powerful tool for learning, that’s not the same thing as saying it will be positive for traditional education. (After all, learning and education are not the same.)

Don’t get me wrong – it could be, and it’s exciting to see what companies like Khan Academy and Duolingo are starting to do with the technology. But AI seems almost certain to lead to job losses for traditional tutors, coaches, TAs, and most likely even for lead instructors over time. It will change the dynamic of formal education across all sectors – K-12, higher ed, and adult continuing education and professional development. While that’s bound to produce some positive changes, it’s far from clear whether the overall shift will be for the better.

Making the Most of ChatGPT

So, where does that leave us?

Clearly, ChatGPT and other forms of AI are here to stay, and we’ll be dealing with their impact for years to come. For lifelong learners – and, of course, you know I think that should be everyone – I’d argue there is no time to waste in getting familiar with what ChatGPT can do and starting to think about both the short and long-term implications.

Certainly, as a tool to support your learning efforts, the potential for ChatGPT is huge. We need to learn about it, and we need to learn to learn with it.

Whether you use Open AI’s ChatGPT interface or access it through other tools like Jasper.ai, I strongly encourage you to roll up your sleeves and start experimenting as soon as possible. Pick a handful of the uses for lifelong learning that ChatGPT outlined above and start trying them out as part of your own lifelong learning efforts.

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the lifelong learners in your life? Be sure to also check out 10 Ways to Be a Better Learner from Mission to Learn founder Jeff Cobb. The post ChatGPT and Lifelong Learning appeared first on Mission to Learn - Lifelong Learning Blog.