How AI ruins learning to code (or ENHANCES it!)

Why do experienced coders recommend avoiding AI when learning to code? Is it really smart to NOT use this revolutionary tool and incorporate it into the learning process?

This talk explores the question of how best to use generative AI to learn to code. It uses an example student to explore how AI can ruin learning and lead to false feelings of confidence. By applying well-established learning principles like spaced repetition, active learning, and deliberate practice, this talk lays down guidelines for using AI effectively when learning to code, so that it enhances, rather than detracts from, your learning journey. The talk mostly discusses studying using ChatGPT when taking a computer science course, but it would also apply to other models like Claude or Gemini.

If you're a student of coding or computer science, an educator, or just someone who is curious about the answer, you'll definitely want to watch this video in full.

Thank you!

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https://www.codeslatetutoring.com

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References:
Brown, P. C. (2014). Make it stick the science of successful learning (Pilot project. eBook available to selected US libraries only). Harvard University Press. https://doi.org/10.4159/9780674419377
Ericsson, K.A. Given that the detailed original criteria for deliberate practice have not changed, could the understanding of this complex concept have improved over time? A response to Macnamara and Hambrick (2020). Psychological Research 85, 1114–1120 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00426-020-01...
Ericsson, K. A., Krampe, R. T., & Tesch-Römer, C. (1993). The Role of Deliberate Practice in the Acquisition of Expert Performance. Psychological Review, 100(3), 363–406. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-295X.100...
Oakley, B. A. (2014). {A mind for numbers} : how to excel at math and science (even if you flunked algebra). TarcherPerigree, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

00:00 Intro
01:11 How a typical CS student uses AI
03:10 How David studies and uses AI
09:48 Illusion of competence/mastery
13:30 Actively learning to code
20:58 Test yourself to avoid overconfidence from AI
28:36 Deliberate practice defined
33:31 Using AI to emulate deliberate practice
39:00 Pitfalls of using AI for feedback
42:15 Review
45:09 Conclusion