It matters who teaches you

The story of learning has always been one of personal connection and growth. The author reflects on their own educational journey, struggling in traditional school environments and finding solace in the flexibility of new tools like Large Language Models (LLMs). These tools, powered by advanced artificial intelligence, can generate diverse explanations of topics based on statistical predictions.

While not always accurate, they often lead to valuable insights, especially for remote workers isolated from traditional learning settings. As the author considers how these tools might have changed their academic career, they ultimately appreciate the profound impact of human instructors and mentors.

In "Inexplicable Magic" by Susan Piver, the author discovers an essential perspective on learning: who teaches you matters. Piver explains that entering a learning practice through a certain doorway, influenced by a teacher's background and guidance, shapes one's understanding and expectations. While it's possible to challenge this path and explore other avenues, the importance of the initial teaching relationship cannot be overstated.

The author grapples with this concept, contemplating the implications of relying solely on AI for learning.

The author's professional background as a software engineer further illuminates the value of human guidance. During an apprenticeship as an electrician, the author learned the importance of a skilled foreman who challenged and nurtured their growth. This experience underscores the author's belief in the critical role of mentorship in shaping individuals, both in technical and personal realms.

As the author contemplates the future of learning in an age of AI-driven tools, they remain cautious about losing the human touch. While LLMs offer unparalleled convenience and access to information, the author fears that they may ultimately erode the emotional connections and inspiration derived from human interactions. They draw a contrast between solitary coding sessions with an LLM and the passionate, collaborative moments spent pair programming or engaging in deep discussions with fellow professionals.

Ultimately, the author concludes that the essence of learning lies in the human connections we forge. These relationships impart not just knowledge, but also values, perspectives, and inspiration. As they look to the future, the author is motivated to continue writing and sharing their experiences, hoping to instill a sense of connection in the next generation of learners.

They emphasize that while AI can augment our learning capabilities, it cannot replace the profound impact of human guidance and mentorship on our personal growth and professional development.