Navigating the Between Times: Education in the Age of AI with Ben Tasker

"We're in the between times – not fully in the future, but no longer in the past." These words from Ben Tasker, Dean of AI at a leading university, capture the transformative moment we're experiencing as artificial intelligence reshapes education and work.In this eye-opening conversation with host Anika, Ben shares his remarkable journey from healthcare administration to data science to educational leadership. Through compelling stories about using data to improve cancer screening in rural Maine and developing algorithms to boost student success, Ben illustrates how AI can solve human problems while emphasizing human connection.The traditional educational model faces unprecedented disruption as information once disseminated in classrooms becomes instantly accessible through AI tools. This reality forces a fundamental shift from time-based degrees toward skills-based learning focused on what you can do rather than how long you spent studying. According to the World Economic Forum, one billion people will need upskill or reskill by 2030, developing both technical AI capabilities and uniquely human qualities like empathy and leadership.For institutions, this means creating flexible learning pathways through micro-credentials, badges, and shorter courses that stack into larger qualifications. For individuals, success requires developing a personal learning plan and building your brand. The good news? Getting started with AI doesn't require complex mathematics – simple experiences using free LLM tools can build familiarity and confidence.Whether you're a student, educator, or professional navigating these "between times," this episode offers practical guidance for thriving in an AI-transformed world. Take your first step today by creating your learning plan – when written down, goals become 76% more likely to happen – and begin your AI journey with simple experiments that demonstrate the technology's potential.This podcast is proudly sponsored by USC Annenberg’s Master of Science in Digital Media Management (MSDMM) program. An online master’s designed to prepare practitioners to understand the evolving media landscape, make data-driven and ethical decisions, and build a more equitable future by leading diverse teams with the technical, artistic, analytical, and production skills needed to create engaging content and technologies for the global marketplace. Learn more or apply today at https://dmm.usc.edu.