29th May - Could AI be changing how we learn & socialise in ways we haven't realised? With Rita Bateson
Description
In this week's episode (Part 2 of 2), Tim Burnett continues his conversation with Rita Bateson, an assessment writer, curriculum developer, and Director at Eblana Learning. Rita has extensive experience working with the International Baccalaureate (IB) and specialises in the ethical evolution of assessment technology.
They discuss:
- Cognitive offloading: How AI might be making us mentally lazy and changing our thinking habits
- The politeness paradox: Why Sam Altman's comment about "please and thank you" costing millions reveals deeper social engineering implications
- Generational impacts: How children born into the AI world face unique challenges with privacy, mistakes, and constant surveillance
Rita explores how AI is unconsciously changing human behaviour, from writing styles to social interactions. She shares insights about students reaching for AI before asking peers, the phenomenon of "memory offloading" (similar to how we stopped remembering phone numbers), and the subtle ways AI is reshaping how we think and communicate.
The conversation reveals surprising findings about AI's ability to understand human dynamics and relationships, while addressing concerns about the first generation that "truly won't have the ability to be forgotten."
If you missed Part 1, catch up on the environmental impact of AI-powered assessments: https://www.linkedin.com/events/7328162968389435393/comments
Learn more about Rita's work at the e-Assessment Associations 2025 conference in London:https://conference2025.e-assessment.com/2025/en/page/ai-symposium-2025
Connect with Rita Bateson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rita-bateson-frsa-8741b868/
Connect with Tim Burnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tburnett/
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