On this episode: “AI for the Mind: Enhancing Executive Functioning with Craig Smith”
Executive function (EF) refers to a set of cognitive processes that enable individuals to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, manage time, regulate emotions, and adapt to changing situations. Although well reported that people who are neurodivergent experience issues with EF, they can also be experienced by neurotypicals. Depression, anxiety, perimenopause, life challenges (relationship issues, house move, death of a loved one) can all influence EF (Diamond, 2013).
We are very excited to bring you a special guest this month, Craig Smith.
Craig is part of the Positive Partnerships foundation in Australia. Craig took to the TEDx stage in November 2024 to discuss all things Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Neurodivergence. Ben and Craig discuss the ways in which AI can be used, from having a daily ‘walk and talk’ with it, to rehearsing for performances or social interactions.
Ben and Craig then discuss the pitfalls of AI, and how students can avoid these, with helpful tips on its use. Craig mentions his 'Universal Sandpit', which was created to assist teachers with using AI to create inclusive teaching materials.
Web links from the show: (all correct at time of recording)
Executive Functions (Diamond, 2013)
Definition of executive function and how it can affect neurodivergence and neurotypicals.
ChatGPT
The AI software mentioned and used by Craig.
The Universal Sandpit
A sandpit that was created by Craig and mentioned in the podcast.
TEDx Talk
Unlocking Potential: AI for Neurodiverse Minds | Craig Smith | TEDxCooks Hill
Virtual Speech
The software used by Craig to practice speaking in front of an audience prior to his TEDx Talk.
Wellbeing/Mental Health Support Contacts:
If you are a student or staff member at the University of Staffordshire and have been affected by any of the topics that have been discussed in this podcast, don’t struggle alone, the University of Staffordshire are here to help…
Contact Wellbeing Support on 01782 294976 or by emailing studentwellbeing@staffs.ac.uk.
For external listeners, mental health crisis lines and suicide prevention contacts can be found below. Please reach out if you feel you need to!
NHS Mental Health Services - https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services/where-to-get-urgent-help-for-mental-health/
Mind Support and Services - https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/seeking-help-for-a-mental-health-problem/where-to-start/
Samaritans Contact - https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
Upcoming Podcasts:
Death within other religions, human factors and ergonomics, and more service users sharing their unique experiences, using AI within education and more!
Previous Podcasts:
Race, Transgender, Neurodiversity, Impacts of trauma, Mature student experiences, Transition from student to healthcare professional, specialised areas such as mental health and organ transplant teams, and a LIVE guided meditation.
Want to get involved?
Are you a student? Member of staff? A Healthcare worker?
Do you have a topic you would like to share?
Get in touch! Let’s Pod!
Contact The Link podcast team:
@TheLinkPodcast_ on X (formally Twitter)
Ben W-H - @benw_h on X
ben.woodrow-hirst@staffs.ac.uk
Kirsty Egan - @KirstyODP on X
kirsty.egan@student.staffs.ac.uk
Hosted by: Ben Woodrow-Hirst
Produced & Edited by: Ben Woodrow-Hirst & Kirsty Egan
Artwork: Ben Woodrow-Hirst
Intro & Outro: Rohanna Wholey
Theme Music: Gavin Samways
