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

Huberman Lab

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

02:22:56 Future Projects, Brain & Self-Attention

02:31:39 Zero-Cost Support, YouTube, Spotify & Apple Follow & Reviews, Sponsors, YouTube Feedback, Protocols Book, Social Media, Neural Network Newsletter

Disclaimer & Disclosures