Accessing Ability Newsletter - Issue #14: The Art of Asking Questions in the Age of AI

Welcome back to the “Accessing Ability” Newsletter. This newsletter serves as an extension of the special Accessing Ability series on the Youniversal Luv Movement podcast, sharing my reflections on each episode. If you have not already, we invite you to listen to the series on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. In this issue, we explore how interacting with generative AI can allow us to enhance and access new inquiry skills.

Introduction

What if you had a magic wand and all you needed to do was say "I can" to be able to do anything? This question frames our exploration in this issue, focusing on the transformative power of asking effective questions. In the age of AI, the ability to inquire effectively has never been more critical. This edition of the Accessing Ability newsletter explores how asking effective questions can unlock better decision-making, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, all essential for navigating our rapidly evolving world.

The Importance of Inquiry

My Journey with Inquiry

As an educator, I entered the field with a mission to magnify and create more room for expansive thinking around the diverse ways in which people are smart and can contribute to society. This belief, inspired by Howard Gardner’s "Intelligence Reframed," has shaped my approach to teaching and personal development. Over the years, I’ve explored numerous frameworks, from multiple intelligences to personality assessments, all aimed at helping individuals see their true potential.

In every context, one constant has emerged: the power of asking the effective questions. Whether in education, personal growth, or leadership, the quality of questions determines the depth and quality of understanding and decision-making.

The Role of AI in Inquiry

Artificial intelligence has added a new dimension to this inquiry process. AI tools, like those developed by OpenAI and Google, have revolutionized how we access and process information. These tools can now provide high-quality, multimodal responses that integrate text, image, and voice, making them powerful aids in our quest for knowledge.

However, the effectiveness of these tools hinges on the quality of the questions we ask. Poorly framed questions yield poor answers, regardless of the sophistication of the AI. This newsletter issue explores how to craft better questions to harness the full potential of AI.

Crafting Effective Questions

From General to Specific

One of the biggest challenges people face is organizing their thoughts to ask effective questions. Let’s consider an example: A person goes to a fortune teller (and we are assuming this works etc, work with me here even if you don't believe in such, it will make sense, trust me) and asks, "Can you tell me about my future?" This is a broad, unfocused question. A more effective version might be, "What actions can I take to achieve success in the future?" This question is more specific and empowers the individual to take actionable steps. Perhaps a greater question might be, "Can you tell me what I need to know to have a fulfilling life?"

The Power of Context

Context is crucial when asking questions. For instance, instead of asking, "Should I buy a new car?" a better question would be, "Given my budget, daily commute, and view on environmental impact, what type of car should I consider?" This approach frames the question within specific parameters, leading to more useful and relevant answers.

Practical Applications and Real-Life Examples

Practical Example 1: AI Enhancing Decision-Making

Consider a high school student, Alex, who is deciding which college to attend. Using AI tools, Alex can input various parameters such as preferred major, location, and budget. The AI can then provide a list of potential colleges that fit these criteria. Alex can refine his query by asking more specific questions, such as, "Which of these colleges has the best program for my major?" or "What are the average tuition fees for these colleges?" By framing his questions effectively, Alex can make a more informed decision about his future.

Practical Example 2: Using Carl's CAPABLE Framework

In a corporate setting, imagine a mid-sized company struggling with employee engagement and productivity. By implementing Carl's CAPABLE (Clarify, Assess, Pinpoint, Align, Bridge, Leverage, Evaluate) framework , the company begins by clarifying its goals and assessing the skills and needs of its employees. With the help of AI tools, the company can pinpoint specific areas where employees need support or training. AI-driven training modules are aligned with these needs, bridging skill gaps and leveraging employees' strengths. Regular evaluations and feedback loops ensure continuous improvement. As a result, employee satisfaction and productivity soar, demonstrating the practical application of Carl's CAPABLE framework in a real-world scenario.

The Art of Inquiry in Everyday Life

Asking Effective Question

The ability to ask effective questions is a skill that transcends AI and technology. It is a fundamental aspect of critical thinking and problem-solving. Effective questions are open-ended, encouraging exploration and deeper understanding. For instance, when considering a significant life decision like marriage, instead of asking, “Should I marry this person?” a more expansive question would be, “What qualities do I need in a partner to build a fulfilling life together?” or “How can we align our future goals and values?”

In the context of career planning, instead of asking, “What job should I apply for?” a more productive question might be, “What skills and experiences do I need to achieve my long-term career goals?” This approach not only provides clarity but also empowers individuals to take actionable steps towards their objectives.

Integrating AI for Enhanced Inquiry

AI can significantly enhance our ability to ask and refine questions. For example, using AI tools, individuals can input broad queries and then narrow them down based on the AI’s responses. This iterative process helps in honing in on the most pertinent questions and obtaining the most relevant information.

Consider a scenario where someone is exploring new hobbies. An initial question to an AI tool might be, “What are some interesting hobbies for a person that (fill in the blank with general interests, likes and dislikes)?” Based on the AI’s response, the individual can then ask more specific questions like, “What are the benefits of learning a musical instrument?” or “How can I get started with digital painting?” This method helps in refining the inquiry and obtaining tailored advice that suits personal interests and goals. One could also ask the generative AI to help ask them questions that would help them discover hobbies. Then the AI could co-collaborate in the thinking and inquiry process. More expansive right?

Encouraging a Culture of Inquiry

Fostering Curiosity and Exploration

Encouraging a culture of inquiry means fostering an environment where questions are valued over immediate answers. It involves teaching people, especially young learners, to be curious, to explore different perspectives, and to seek deeper understanding. This approach not only enhances decision-making but also promotes lifelong learning and adaptability.

Educational Settings

In educational settings, this can be achieved by integrating project-based learning where students are encouraged to ask questions and explore answers through research and collaboration. For instance, instead of traditional lectures, educators can present real-world problems and guide students in formulating questions and seeking solutions. This method not only engages students but also equips them with the skills needed to navigate an information-rich world.

Professional Settings

In the professional world, fostering a culture of inquiry can lead to innovation and continuous improvement. For example, during team meetings, leaders can encourage employees to ask probing questions about processes and strategies. Instead of simply presenting solutions, managers can facilitate brainstorming sessions where team members are encouraged to explore different approaches and challenge existing practices. This not only fosters a sense of ownership and engagement but also drives creative problem-solving and innovation within the organization.

Leveraging AI to Foster Inquiry

AI tools can play a significant role in promoting a culture of inquiry. For example, in classrooms, AI-driven platforms can provide personalized feedback to students’ questions, encouraging them to delve deeper into subjects. AI can also help in creating interactive learning experiences where students can ask questions and receive immediate, detailed responses, thus fostering a more engaging and exploratory learning environment.

Professional Applications

In the workplace, AI-powered tools can facilitate continuous learning and inquiry. For instance, AI-driven knowledge management systems can help employees find information quickly and efficiently, encouraging them to ask questions and seek solutions independently. AI chatbots can provide on-demand support, answering queries and guiding employees through complex tasks. By integrating these tools, organizations can create a dynamic learning environment that empowers employees to take initiative and pursue knowledge actively.

Building Inquiry Skills with AI

Developing Effective Inquiry Skills

To interact effectively with AI and maximize its benefits, individuals need to develop strong inquiry skills. This involves understanding how to frame questions, refine them based on responses, and use the information obtained to make informed decisions.

Practical Application: Career Development

Consider a college student, Sarah, who is exploring career options. She begins by asking an AI tool, “What are the top careers in technology?” The AI provides a list of careers, prompting Sarah to ask follow-up questions such as, “What skills are required for a data scientist?” and “What is the job outlook for software engineers?” By refining her questions, Sarah gains a comprehensive understanding of her options and can make informed decisions about her career path.

Practical Application: Professional Development

In a professional context, imagine an employee, John, who wants to enhance his skills to advance in his career. John can use an AI-powered career development tool to ask, “What additional skills do I need to become a project manager?” The AI can analyze his current skills and recommend relevant courses and certifications. John can then refine his inquiry by asking, “Which online courses are best rated for project management?” and “What is the typical career path for a project manager in my industry?” By leveraging AI to guide his inquiry, John can create a targeted development plan that aligns with his career goals.

Enhancing Learning and Development

In the workplace, AI can enhance employee training and development programs, ensuring that staff are equipped with the skills needed for today and tomorrow. AI-driven learning platforms can provide personalized learning paths, track progress, and adapt content to meet individual needs. This approach not only improves engagement but also ensures that employees acquire the skills necessary to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving job market.

Personal Development

For personal development, AI offers tools that can help individuals clarify their goals, assess their skills, and track their progress, making personal growth more accessible and achievable. For instance, an individual seeking to improve their public speaking skills can use AI-driven feedback tools to analyze their presentations, receive constructive feedback, and track their improvement over time. This personalized approach to learning and development fosters continuous growth and helps individuals achieve their full potential.

Conclusion: Embracing the Magic of Inquiry

As we continue to leverage AI and other technological advancements, the art of asking questions becomes even more critical. Effective inquiry leads to better decision-making, deeper understanding, and greater personal and professional growth. By adopting an expansive approach to inquiry, we can unlock our true potential and navigate the complexities of our world with confidence.

Remember, the magic words are “I can.” By using Carl's CAPABLE framework and embracing the power of inquiry, you can achieve anything. If you have any questions or need advice on how to enhance your inquiry skills, feel free to reach out. I am excited about the future and committed to helping more people access their abilities and realize their full potential.

Remember, with the magic of AI and the right mindset, you can achieve anything.

This synthesis is not merely an academic exercise but a vital part of my ongoing commitment to understanding and promoting human potential. This commitment underpins all initiatives undertaken by YOUniversal Luv Unlimited. As we continue to explore these themes, the "Accessing Ability" newsletter remains a beacon for those seeking to understand and harness their true capabilities. If you have not already, we invite you to listen to the series on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.