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2024

  • 1 min read

Testing anti-pattern: merged setup data - Code with Jason

Link: Testing anti-pattern: merged setup data - Code with Jason: "In a single test file, there’s often overlap among the setup data needed for the tests in the file. For whatever reasons, perhaps in an effort to improve performance or avoid duplication, test writers often merge the setup code and bring it to the top of the file so it’s available to all test cases. […]"

Interesting. But I think it goes a little far in calling this an "anti pattern". I mean I see the point, but it's not so terrible that I would label it as anti.

  • 1 min read

GPT-4 is 82% more persuasive than humans, and AIs can now read emotions

Link: GPT-4 is 82% more persuasive than humans, and AIs can now read emotions: "GPT-4 is already better at changing people's minds than the average human is, according to new research. The gap widens the more it knows about us – and once it can see us in real time, AI seems likely to become an unprecedented persuasion machine."

Ouch. This is not a happy development. I worry about our highly polarized, super conflicted, manipulated and confused society. This aint gonna help.

  • 1 min read

Ever Had a Horrible Boss? ‘The Fund’ Is the Perfect Rage-Read.

Link: Ever Had a Horrible Boss? ‘The Fund’ Is the Perfect Rage-Read.: "In Rob Copeland’s “The Fund,” we learn about the notorious hedge-fund giant Ray Dalio — and the manipulative professional hellscape over which he has presided."

Reading this book right now. It is super good, highly readable. And you really learn about how weird a place to work can be. You’ve got to read it to believe it. I don’t want to say more lest I get sued.

  • 5 min read

The Future of Remote Learning: A Strong Case for Synchronous Methods

By Perplexity.ai

As the landscape of education continues to evolve, the debate between synchronous and asynchronous remote learning has intensified. With advancements in internet connectivity and online learning platforms, synchronous remote learning is poised to become the dominant mode of education. This article presents a compelling case for why synchronous remote learning will outstrip asynchronous methods, supported by detailed references and data.

This article was written by (or with extensive help from) Perplexity.ai

Real-Time Interaction and Engagement

Synchronous learning offers unparalleled opportunities for real-time interaction, which is crucial for maintaining student engagement and participation. According to Gravitas, synchronous learning facilitates greater participation and engagement, timely feedback, and increased satisfaction among students[1]. The ability to ask questions and receive immediate responses enhances the learning experience, making it more dynamic and interactive.

Immediate Feedback and Collaboration

One of the most significant advantages of synchronous learning is the provision of immediate feedback. This real-time interaction helps clarify misconceptions quickly and fosters a sense of community among learners. As noted by Easygenerator, synchronous learning allows for optimized classroom discussions and real-time collaboration, which are essential for deep learning and understanding[2]. The social presence created in synchronous sessions can replicate the benefits of in-person learning, making students feel more connected to their peers and instructors.

Technological Advancements

The continuous improvement in internet connectivity, including the widespread availability of high-speed broadband and 5G networks, has reduced the technical barriers to synchronous learning. Faster and more reliable internet connections minimize issues such as lag and poor video quality, making synchronous online learning more feasible and attractive[2][4][6]. Additionally, advancements in online learning platforms and tools, such as breakout rooms, live polls, and interactive whiteboards, have enhanced the interactivity of synchronous sessions, making them more engaging and pedagogically sound[1][2][4].

Many students and educators prefer synchronous learning for its real-time interaction and immediate feedback. Studies have shown that synchronous learning can be more effective for certain types of content and activities, such as discussions, group work, and hands-on exercises[1][2][3]. The ability to engage in live discussions and collaborative activities can enhance understanding and retention of the material. For instance, a study by Panopto highlighted that synchronous learning provides opportunities for real-time social interactions and discussions, which are critical for student success[3].

Institutional Support

Educational institutions are increasingly recognizing the benefits of synchronous learning and are investing in the necessary infrastructure and training to support it. This trend is likely to continue as institutions seek to provide high-quality online education that can compete with traditional in-person learning[1][2][4]. The integration of synchronous learning into standard curricula reflects a broader shift towards more interactive and engaging online education models.

Data and Research Findings

Research supports the effectiveness of synchronous learning in improving student outcomes. For example, a study by Software Advice found that when synchronous learning features are used in conjunction with asynchronous learning, the course becomes more engaging and learning outcomes are improved[6]. This suggests that while asynchronous methods have their place, the real-time interaction provided by synchronous learning is crucial for maximizing student engagement and success.

Conclusion

The evidence strongly supports the view that synchronous remote learning will outstrip asynchronous methods in the future. The advantages of real-time interaction, immediate feedback, and community building, combined with the diminishing technical barriers, make synchronous learning an increasingly viable and attractive option for both students and educators. As educational institutions continue to invest in and refine their online teaching strategies, the role of synchronous learning is likely to expand, providing a dynamic and interactive alternative to traditional and asynchronous learning methods.

How it did it

I gave perplexity.ai a series of prompts narrowing down the topic and then asked it to write a two page article about it. I forced it to take a side although all along it was trying to say It depends. The final prompt was:

A synthesized, fact-dense article that takes a strong stance towards synchronous remote learning, while also acknowledging the benefits of asynchronous learning.

References

  1. Gravitas. (2022). Benefits of Online Synchronous Learning. Retrieved from https://gravitas.sbs.org/blog/benefits-of-online-synchronous-learning/
  2. Easygenerator. (2022). Synchronous vs Asynchronous Learning: What's Better? Retrieved from https://www.easygenerator.com/en/blog/e-learning/synchronous-learning-vs-asynchronous-learning/
  3. Panopto. (2022). Asynchronous e-Learning Definition: Examples, Benefits, and More. Retrieved from https://www.panopto.com/blog/asynchronous-learning-explained-examples-benefits-and-more/
  4. D2L. (2021). A Complete Guide to Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Learning. Retrieved from https://www.d2l.com/blog/guide-synchronous-vs-asynchronous-learning/
  5. Evisions. (2021). Synchronous vs Asynchronous Learning: What's the Balance for Success? Retrieved from https://www.evisions.com/resources/blog/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-learning-whats-the-balance-for-success/
  6. Software Advice. (2022). Distance Learning: Asynchronous vs. Synchronous Learning. Retrieved from https://www.softwareadvice.com/resources/asynchronous-vs-synchronous-learning/

Citations:

  1. https://gravitas.sbs.org/blog/benefits-of-online-synchronous-learning/
  2. https://www.easygenerator.com/en/blog/e-learning/synchronous-learning-vs-asynchronous-learning/
  3. https://www.panopto.com/blog/asynchronous-learning-explained-examples-benefits-and-more/
  4. https://www.d2l.com/blog/guide-synchronous-vs-asynchronous-learning/
  5. https://www.evisions.com/resources/blog/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-learning-whats-the-balance-for-success/
  6. https://www.softwareadvice.com/resources/asynchronous-vs-synchronous-learning/
  7. https://infobase.com/blog/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-learning-what-makes-them-different/
  8. https://elmlearning.com/blog/synchronous-learning-advantages-disadvantages/
  9. https://www.brynmawr.edu/news/asynchronous-vs-synchronous-learning-quick-overview
  10. https://www.edsurge.com/news/2020-10-01-asynchronous-learning-or-live-lessons-which-one-works-better-for-me
  11. https://www.waybook.com/blog/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-training-which-one-to-choose
  12. https://online.njit.edu/blog-posts/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-online-learning-what%E2%80%99s-difference
  13. https://edtechmagazine.com/higher/article/2021/10/changing-face-instruction-synchronous-vs-asynchronous-e-learning-perfcon
  14. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8542673/
  15. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10960437/
  16. https://uwaterloo.ca/keep-learning/strategies-remote-teaching/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-online-learning
  17. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.733554/full
  18. https://thebestschools.org/resources/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-programs-courses/
  19. https://calt.umbc.edu/teaching/course-design-online/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-remote-instruction/
  20. https://online.osu.edu/resources/learn/whats-difference-between-asynchronous-and-synchronous-learning
  • 1 min read

marimo | a next-generation Python notebook

Link: marimo | a next-generation Python notebook: "Explore data and build apps seamlessly with marimo, a next-generation Python notebook."

I have not tried this yet, but reading this summary – – which is quite comprehensive – – tell me that the authors have really understood something important about Jupiter notebooks and then trying something that could be a whole lot more valuable. When I use Jupiter notebooks. I always get points when the code is getting too complicated or two and I end up moving it to VS code to work on it a software engineering kind of mode.

  • 1 min read

Lessons learned reinventing the Python notebook

Link: Lessons learned reinventing the Python notebook: "Designing a notebook that can be shared as an app, run as a script, versioned with git, and more"

I have not tried this yet, but reading this summary – – which is quite comprehensive – – tell me that the authors have really understood something important about Jupiter notebooks and her trying something that could be a whole lot more valuable. When I use Jupiter notebooks. I always get points when the code is getting too complicated or two and I end up moving it to VS code to work on it a software engineering kind of mode.

  • 1 min read

Applied AI Software Engineering: RAG

Link: Applied AI Software Engineering: RAG: "Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) is a common building block of AI software engineering. A deep dive into what it is, its limitations, and some alternative use cases. By Ross McNairn."

A basic overview of the RAG concept and how it is used in LLMs. Even includes source code and a GitHub repository!