A.I. Lab & the UCDI methodology

Confessions of Brian W. Sykes... a self-professed treasure hunting, deep-diving, over-delivering, learner ( that loves teaching.)

I launched the A.I. Lab with 2 courses that release January 1st (that are currently running thru the Beta for both courses). They are LEVELS and A.I. for VIDEO. Rather than do a course overview, I want to step back and discuss what makes these courses unique, and how they can truly revolutionize your learning experience. It is a NEW teaching method that I have developed (over my nearly 30 years teaching software to creatives, and business marketing to SMB leaders). I call it the UCDI methodology. (That sounds kind of like a Calculous formula, does it not?) Each step of HOW I walk a LEARNER through a problem solving technique with gen-AI is more crucial and beneficial to their overall learning, than the generated output (the reverse of the common statement - "the sum is greater than its parts.")

Structure of UCDI methodology...

The Unconventional Contextualization in Design Innovation (UCDI) methodology is a unique approach to design and creative problem-solving that emphasizes innovative thinking by placing familiar concepts in unconventional contexts. It involves seven (7) key steps:

1. Unconventional Problem Solving

Module Introduction: Introduce a real-world problem placed in an unconventional context to stimulate creativity. This involves setting design challenges that defy traditional norms, prompting learners to think outside the box.

2. Research and Exploration

AI-Assisted Learning: Utilize AI tools like ChatGPT for research and exploration relevant to the unconventional context. This step leverages the power of AI to deepen understanding and generate novel ideas.

3. Innovative Conceptualization

Idea Development: Encourage imaginative thinking to conceptualize solutions that align with the unique context. This fosters the development of original ideas that are both innovative and contextually relevant.

4. AI Driven Creativity

Utilizing AI Tools: Leveraging AI platforms, especially text-to-image AI like Dall-E 3, for initial visual creation and ideation. This step integrates AI into the creative process, enhancing the ability to visualize and realize innovative concepts.

5. Integration with Conventional Tools

Blending Old and New: Combining the innovative solutions generated by AI with established design tools and techniques. This ensures a balance between cutting-edge technology and traditional design methodologies, leading to more refined and practical outcomes.

6. Context-Driven Design Application

Contextual Design Elements: Applying design elements and principles in a manner that is both creative and appropriate for the chosen context. This final step ensures that the design solutions are not only innovative but also resonate with the specific unconventional setting.

7. Reflective & Analytical Presentation

Documenting and Presenting the Process: Creating presentations that detail each creative and analytical step in the project. The effort of teaching or explaining what you have done, reinforces concepts and solidifies CORE principles, making practical the knowledge learned.

The UCDI methodology is structured to provide a holistic learning experience, encompassing everything from initial research to final presentation. It's designed to challenge conventional norms, encouraging learners to explore and integrate diverse skills, from modern technology to traditional design practices. This approach enhances creative engagement, problem-solving abilities, and overall skill development in design and innovation. I may be more excited about this approach to teaching and learning, than I am of the course work developed for A.I. Lab!

Implementation of the UCDI methodology...

• Module-based Learning: Each module centers around a distinct project with its own unique context.
• Interdisciplinary and Creative: Combines elements of design, AI technology, history, sociology, and more.
• Encouraging Novel Approaches: Promotes innovative thinking by placing familiar concepts in unfamiliar settings.
• Comprehensive Skill Development: Offers a holistic approach, encompassing everything from initial research to final presentation.

Benefits of the UCDI methodology...

• Creative Engagement: Encourages learners to think outside the box by constantly challenging conventional norms.
• Diverse Skill Integration: Seamlessly blends modern technology with traditional design methodologies.
• Enhanced Problem-Solving: Fosters adaptability and inventive thinking by presenting unconventional scenarios.
• Complete Learning Experience: Ensures a thorough understanding of the design process from conception to communication.

I believe the UCDI Method stands out as a highly effective and engaging way to teach design, leveraging the power of unconventional thinking to foster creativity and innovation in creative learners.

Course Dynamics with the UCDI methodology...

• Encourage group collaboration for brainstorming and project production.

• Offering practical sessions on using AI tools for the complete creative process.

• Fostering critical thinking by challenging students to adapt AI technology to unconventional contexts.

• Each module culminates in a presentation where students showcase their work and reflect on their learning process.

The A.I. Lab course structure, underpinned by the UCDI Method, not only teaches technical skills related to AI and creative project production but also encourages creativity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of how AI can be integrated into the entire creative workflow for amplification of the Creative Professional's capabilities and knowledge!

Want to get signed up for one of the courses on A.I. Lab? You can find them at https://AIExplore.GetLearnWorlds.com . There are 2 courses presently. These are BOTH immersive, community driven courses with video-based and e-Book supported course work, weekly live engagement with me, daily access to the community thru Discord and the Course.

LEVELS is made up of 4 different Courses that have to be taken in sequence. Each LEVEL, is 12 weeks (3-months) and represent 3 Modules (1 per month). LEVEL 1 launches January 1 and runs through the end of March. I try to keep class sizes to no more than 8 (unless requested by a company specifically). Time in project varies depending on the student, but anticipate 1 to 5 hrs/week broken over the 7 days. Feedback on the coursework from those in the Beta have been very positive on the workload and things gained during the course.

A.I. for VIDEO is one 10-week session, made up of 2 Modules. It will launch January 1st also.

For both of these courses, I recommend some level of comfort in design applications - Photoshop, Illustrator for LEVELS and Premiere (or equivalent) in VIDEO, and access to gen-AI tools like Midjourney, ChatGPT, etc. There will be some exploration of multiple gen-AI tools and platforms throughout the course with deep dives in specific applications relevant to the work of creative Professionals pertinent to the projects on hand. This IS a live class that will be updated in real-time with new applications to explore and integrate.

Reach out with ANY questions!

Brian Sykes