Thinking in an Age of Automation

Ever caught yourself scrolling through photos of presentation slides you'll never look at again? In this episode, cognitive science researcher Nidhi Sachdeva, PhD, challenges us to reconsider how we're learning in our digital age.

Nidhi, a teacher educator at the University of Toronto and microlearning specialist, shares a startling observation: we're thinking less and reflecting less—and it's impacting our ability to truly learn. Drawing from her extensive research, she explains why our long-term memory requires regular "massaging" through challenging conditions that prompt recall and reflection. The simple act of attempting to remember information before checking notes or photos can dramatically improve retention and drive meaningful behavioral change.

This conversation explores a fundamental disconnect in workplace learning design. Too often, organizations approach training as information dumps without considering the cognitive science of how people actually learn. "You can't connect the dots if you don't have the dots," Nidhi reminds us, emphasizing that dots are built through active thinking, not passive consumption. She references John Sweller's cognitive load theory to illustrate how instruction without understanding human cognitive architecture is essentially "blind."

Perhaps most compelling is Nidhi 's perspective on our evolutionary advantage—our neocortex—and how our rush toward AI and instant information access might be undermining millions of years of cognitive development. This isn't about rejecting technology but using it wisely while preserving our uniquely human capacity for deep reflection.

Whether you're designing learning experiences, leading a team, or simply trying to retain what you learn at your next conference, this episode offers practical wisdom on the power of pausing to think. Listen now and discover why sometimes the most powerful learning technology is the one between your ears.

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Talking About Ways To Improve Company Culture and People Performance

The People and Performance Podcast is a show that dives into all things related to raising performance in the working world around us. We investigate how technology and HR processes are inextricably linked to the employee experience and the bottom line.

Chris Bjorling, Co-host

Christopher Bjorling is President at Fidello Inc., a consulting and services firm specializing in improving human performance.

For over 30 years Chris has led Fidello in creating unique talent management solutions. Through the products and services he and his team have created over the years, his organization has helped clients design, develop, implement and integrate talent management processes and systems.

Bill Banham, Co-host

Bill Banham, Publisher at The HR Gazette, Host of the popular HRchat Podcast and Organizer of events such as DisruptHR London.

Bill has worked with lots of business tech and HR-focused brands in the UK and North America including HRreview, TalentCulture, HRmarketer, Sprigg HR, and Team Fitness Tool.

Contact us to learn more!