Keynotes + Special Guests

Thought-Provoking Ideas about AI and Design in Learning

In these keynotes, we’ll explore the future architecture of learning and development — and, in particular, the role of emerging technologies such as ChatGPT and the role of design in how we "do" training.

Opportunities and Limitations of AI in the Workplace

Wednesday, September 20 • 9:45 am – 11:00 am

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a more powerful tool than ever with seemingly unlimited potential — but it must be better understood to be effective in organizations. With exclusive research and case studies for the impact of AI in training and learning, Dr. Vivienne Ming shares some of her foundational stories of AI’s breakthroughs, where the technology is being applied, where it could be better used, and where it’s headed. Dr. Ming explores maximizing human capacity as a theoretical neuroscientist, delusional inventor, and demented author. She’s founded eight startups, been chief scientist at two others, and launched Socos Labs, the “mad science incubator” where she explores seemingly intractable problems — from a lone child’s disability to global economic inclusion — for free.

Design With, Not For

Thursday, September 21 • 9:45 am – 10:45 am

Embrace the city of New Orleans and the challenges and opportunities presented in this historically vibrant place. Meet Ann Yoachim, the director of Tulane School of Architecture’s Small Center for Collaborative Design, which brings together creative makers and doers working for a better city. Discover how they blend design and learning to improve the quality of life for people and communities throughout New Orleans and beyond. Learn how the center designs with — not for — stakeholders and users, and how this approach can be applied in your own learning design. Ann is a constant brainstormer whose work supports meaningful change through research and interdisciplinary collaboration to shape built, natural, and social environments that impact health and wellness.

SPECIAL GUESTS

New Orleans native Marcus Brown is a sculptor, painter, inventor, musician, and educator whose work has been exhibited and performed nationally and internationally. Mentors instilled in Brown the importance of always learning and experimenting to create one’s own path, which inspired him to develop a form of art called Electro-Sonic Painting in which the artist paints with sound- and data-producing instruments (which you will experience at TechLearn 2023!). In addition, Marcus will demo another element of his work — combining a new form of creative storytelling using Augmented Reality (AR) sculptures with interactive multimedia elements. His latest project, Slavery Trails, is a geotagged musically interactive augmented reality (AR) sculpture installation series based on slave ships and enslaved peoples.

New Orleans native Renard Boissiere breaks all boundaries — whether he hits the stage with his eclectic, electric band, Nardy Boy, or as an acoustic act trotting out the live chill vibe. Renard has performed live with the Neville Brothers and Delfeayo Marsalis, recorded with Rock-n-Roll Hall of Famers Tina Weymouth and Chris Frantz of the Talking Heads, and opened for Odetta, and the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, among several others. Renard is also a creative educator, writer, and poet — and previously worked for a tech company as a technical writer and trainer!