Redefine Education

Thinking with Machines: Human Skills for an AI-Mediated World

Tim Spira

As artificial intelligence shifts from passive tool to active collaborator, the skills most valued in the workforce are evolving rapidly. We are entering an epoch of “co-intelligence”, in which humans and machines work alongside one another, not just automating tasks but augmenting human insight, creativity, and decision-making. What does this mean for educators preparing the next generation?

This presentation explores the skills young people will need to thrive in their personal and professional lives. It examines how AI is already influencing our choices, shaping the information we encounter, and even acting on our behalf as virtual "customers” in the digital economy. In this context, traditional markers of intelligence and employability are giving way to a premium on critical thinking, conceptual clarity, emotional intelligence, and the capacity to work iteratively with intelligent agents.

Tim Spira is head of marketing insights and technology at Investec. He joined the organisation in 2017 to set up and lead Investec's global content marketing function, which is now a recognised leader in branded financial content, with channels including the Investec Focus web platform and the award-winning Investec Focus Radio podcast. His current role sits at the intersection marketing and technology, with a focus on leveraging AI and data science to optimise marketing performance and bolster Investec’s international brand. Prior to joining Investec, Tim built and led some of South Africa’s leading digital media properties including Fin24 and eNCA.com. He has spoken at several industry conferences in South Africa and the UK and is currently co-authoring a white paper for the Association for Communication and Advertising on the impact of AI on the marketing and advertising industry.

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