Dr. Terry Sejnowski: How to Improve at Learning Using Neuroscience & AI

In this episode, my guest is Dr. Terry Sejnowski, Ph.D., professor of computational neurobiology at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies. He is world-renowned for exploring how our brain processes and stores information and, with that understanding, for developing tools that enable us to markedly improve our ability to learn all types of information and skills.

We discuss how to learn most effectively in order to truly master a subject or skill. Dr. Sejnowski explains how to use AI tools to forage for new information, generate ideas, predict the future, and assist in analyzing health data and making health-related decisions.

We also explore non-AI strategies to enhance learning and creativity, including how specific types of exercise can improve mitochondrial function and cognitive performance. Listeners will gain insights into how computational methods and AI are transforming our understanding of brain function, learning, and memory, as well as the emerging roles of these tools in addressing personal health and treating brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Access the full show notes for this episode at hubermanlab.com.

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Timestamps

00:00:00 Dr. Terry Sejnowski  

00:02:32 Sponsors: BetterHelp & Helix Sleep  

00:05:19 Brain Structure & Function, Algorithmic Level  

00:11:49 Basal Ganglia; Learning & Value Function  

00:15:23 Value Function, Reward & Punishment  

00:19:14 Cognitive vs. Procedural Learning, Active Learning, AI  

00:25:56 Learning & Brain Storage  

00:30:08 Traveling Waves, Sleep Spindles, Memory  

00:32:08 Sponsors: AG1 & David  

00:34:57 Tool: Increase Sleep Spindles; Memory, Ambien; Prescription Drugs  

00:42:02 Psilocybin, Brain Connectivity  

00:45:58 Tool: ‘Learning How to Learn’ Course  

00:49:36 Learning, Generational Differences, Technology, Social Media  

00:58:37 Sponsors: LMNT & Joovv  

01:01:06 Draining Experiences, AI & Social Media  

01:06:52 Vigor & Aging, Continued Learning, Tool: Exercise & Mitochondrial Function  

01:12:17 Tool: Cognitive Velocity; Quick Stressors, Mitochondria  

01:16:58 AI, Imagined Futures, Possibilities  

01:27:14 AI & Mapping Potential Options, Schizophrenia  

01:30:56 Schizophrenia, Ketamine, Depression  

01:36:15 AI, “Idea Pump,” Analyzing Research  

01:42:11 AI, Medicine & Diagnostic Tool; Predicting Outcomes  

01:50:04 Parkinson’s Disease; Cognitive Velocity & Variables; Amphetamines  

01:59:49 Free Will; Large Language Model (LLM), Personalities & Learning  

02:12:40 Tool: Idea Generation, Mind Wandering, Learning  

02:18:18 Dreams, Unconscious, Types of Dreams &nbs