#370 Redefining Learning: Juliette Denny on AI, Gamification, and the Future of Education

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, we are joined by Juliette Denny, a pioneer in the learning and development space and the driving force behind Growth Engineering and the newly launched Iridescent Technologies. Juliette shares her journey from founding Growth Engineering, a company that has been revolutionizing corporate learning for over 20 years, to her latest venture focused on AI-powered learning solutions. We delve into the evolution of learning technologies, particularly the role of gamification in making corporate training more engaging and effective. Juliette explains the difference between game-based learning and gamification, emphasizing how gaming mechanics like streaks, points, and leaderboards can significantly enhance the learning experience. The conversation then shifts to Zavmo AI, Iridescent Technologies’ innovative AI-driven learning companion set to launch soon. Juliette explains how Zavmo AI is designed to provide personalized learning experiences by understanding individual learner needs, behaviors, and preferences through a four-step process: Discover, Discuss, Deliver, and Demonstrate. This approach aims to break away from traditional one-size-fits-all education models, offering tailored learning paths that cater to each user’s unique learning style and goals. Juliette also touches on her upcoming book, The Learning Revolution, which explores the intersection of brain science, technology, and education, and how AI can be leveraged to create more effective and inclusive learning environments. Throughout the episode, Juliette’s passion for transforming education is evident, particularly her focus on making learning accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or learning challenges. She discusses her personal motivation, rooted in her own experiences with dyslexia, and how this has driven her to ensure that no one is left behind in the learning process. Juliette also offers her insights on the broader implications of AI in education and the entrepreneurial opportunities that this rapidly evolving field presents. Finally, Juliette shares her thoughts on the current landscape of AI applications, particularly the need for entrepreneurs to go beyond merely wrapping existing large language models in simple applications. She stresses the importance of solving real problems and creating impactful solutions that can truly make a difference in people’s lives. More about Juliette: https://www.growthengineering.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliettedenny/ https://iridescenttechnology.ai/ 01:05 Juliette Denny's Background and Career Journey 01:10 Growth Engineering and Learning Solutions 02:06 Introduction to Iridescent Technologies and Zavmo AI 02:56 The Learning Revolution Book 03:20 Challenges in Learning and Development 03:58 Juliette's Journey into Learning and Development 07:49 The Role of Gamification in Learning 10:50 Transitioning to AI-Powered Learning 16:27 The 4D Process of Personalized Learning 27:54 The Flexibility and Potential of AI 28:14 Guardrails and Learning Models in AI 29:13 AI's Role in Human Potential 29:50 Cost-Effective Education with Zavmo 30:31 Skepticism and Misconceptions about AI 32:01 Choosing the Right AI Tools 32:24 The Birth of Zavmo 33:37 Developing AI for Learning 36:01 The Future of AI in Education 37:27 Entrepreneurship in the Age of AI 38:09 The Economics of AI 39:46 Building Meaningful AI Applications 48:40 The Learning Revolution Book 51:40 Final Thoughts and Contact Information