Remember in school when you would learn a concept, and then you would do an “interactive activity” to reinforce your learning. For example, the teacher would talk about photosynthesis and then students would work in groups creating photosynthesis models using toothpicks, papier mâché, and glue guns.

The point is that active engagement produces better outcomes than passive consumption, yet so many digital tools are being used for passive consumption, versus constructive, interactive engagement.

In some cases, like notetaking, it comes down to process, and how process affects memory and cognition. According to a 2024 article in Scientific American, taking notes results in better memory retention and ability to use the information learned.

Taking notes is a form of physical labor

It’s impossible to write everything down when you take notes by hand. You must process information quickly and determine what needs to be written down. Sometimes you find yourself trying to hang onto a word or concept until you can catch up.

The physical effort associated with taking notes enhances the learning process. Writing requires shaping each letter with your pen, versus simply tapping a keyboard. When you think about it, the messy, awkward approach, with papers spilling out of folders, adorned by sticky notes.

Let’s face it. Analog living is messy. Books get schmutz on them, pens get lost, and many people have almost illegible handwriting *guilty as charged*.

So what does this have to do with AI?

EVERYTHING.

Is it possible to passively use AI to write papers or create memes? Sure it is. That approach is fine when there are no ethical implications, but there often are, and you cannot do good work without understanding what you're working on, regardless of the tools you use. For example this article is written 100% without AI. Google was good enough for research and I am a writer who won't put my byline on AI's work. 

Because fancied-up schlock is still schlock. 

Beyond using AI to do something for you, co-creating with AI assumes that you are already an expert. It assumes that at some point, you had a notebook full of urgent notes about the very topic you’re working on.

Everyone recognizes AI schlock when they see it. That smooth, improbably tight copy that somehow captures every thought you wish you had---until you read it through and realize that there are errors and it’s time to start co-creating, or in some cases, that you can write it better yourself.

If you want to learn more about co-creation with AI using strategy and specific prompts, contact GrayMatter AI Solutions: info@graymatteraisolutions.com.