AI for Self-Directed Learning: Build Knowledge and Skills Faster
Michael Madson, PhD
Training expert and lifelong learner
Build a personal system for understanding, practice, and mastery
Most professionals are expected to learn continuously, but few have been taught how to learn efficiently. Information moves quickly, workplace expectations change constantly, and formal training often arrives too late, costs too much, or fails to address immediate needs. As a result, many people spend hours consuming content without retaining it, applying it, or turning it into meaningful skill growth.
This workshop helps participants build a practical system for self-directed learning using generative AI tools. Instead of treating AI as a shortcut, participants will learn how to use it as a learning partner that improves comprehension, retention, practice, reflection, and accountability. The workshop focuses on strategies that busy professionals can apply immediately: breaking down complex topics, identifying knowledge gaps, generating practice exercises, improving memory through active recall, and creating personalized learning workflows.
In a workplace where adaptability is increasingly valuable, the ability to direct your own learning may become one of the most important professional advantages.
Workshop agenda
Welcome and workshop goals
Define self-directed learning, identify common learning barriers, and outline how generative AI tools can support faster and deeper learning.
Why so much adult learning fails
Explore problems like information overload, passive consumption, weak retention, and inconsistent practice.
The new learning stack: Using AI as a learning partner
Learn how AI tools can support explanation, summarization, coaching, questioning, practice, and feedback.
Build a personal learning workflow
Participants map a real learning goal and identify where AI can reduce friction and improve consistency.
Learning faster with better prompts
Practice prompt patterns for simplifying complex topics, generating examples, comparing ideas, and identifying knowledge gaps.
Improving comprehension and retention
Use AI for active recall, spaced repetition, self-testing, concept mapping, and memory reinforcement.
Turn information into long-term memory
Participants transform an article, report, or video into quizzes, summaries, flashcards, and review exercises.
AI for skill development and deliberate practice
Use AI to simulate conversations, role-play scenarios, critique performance, and generate targeted practice exercises.
Avoiding the traps of AI-assisted learning
Discuss hallucinations, overreliance, shallow understanding, misinformation, and passive dependency.
Designing a sustainable self-directed learning system
Participants develop a 30-day AI-enhanced learning plan tied to a professional or personal goal.
Learn directly from Michael
Michael Madson, PhD
Professor, founder, author, trainer
Who this workshop is for
Over-extended Professionals. You are trying keep up with changing tools, workflows, and expectations but lack the time for long courses.
Career Switchers. You are trying to break into a new field without returning to school and looking for ways to build new competencies.
Cross-Functional Leaders. You constantly learn across domains and need efficient systems for absorbing and applying information fast.
What's included
Live sessions
Learn directly from Michael Madson, PhD in a real-time, interactive format.
Lifetime access
Go back to course content and recordings whenever you need to.
Community of peers
Stay accountable and share insights with like-minded professionals.
Certificate of completion
Share your new skills with your employer or on LinkedIn.
Maven Guarantee
Your purchase is backed by the Maven Guarantee.
Frequently asked questions
$349
USD