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Global Careers Calls
Oby Oputa: how intentional use of AI can build critical thinking
In this episode on AI’s impact on work, Sophie interviews Oby Oputa, Associate Director of the University of London Career Service, about opportunities from integrating generative AI and his “AI lenses” framework developed through his master’s dissertation on incorporating AI into careers practice. Oby illustrates how intentional AI use can build confidence, agency, lifelong learning, critical thinking, and more inclusive connection with colleagues and stakeholders, while also helping people move from fear of obsolescence to informed engagement. He describes how his own anxiety about AI led him to research it and use it in ways aligned with his work as Careers practitioner, emphasizing that AI may automate administrative tasks and change some roles while reinforcing the irreplaceable human-centred, relational core of careers practice. Hope you enjoy the call.
Key points:
[01:19] - Meet Oby Oputa
[02:06] - AI Benefits at Work
[04:42] - Fear of Falling Behind
[06:11] - From Anxiety to Research
[10:02] - Human Core of Careers
[13:46] - Introducing AI Lenses
[16:34] - Six Lenses Explained
[17:29] - Intentional AI Pathway
[20:11] - Why Switch Lenses
[23:33] - Framework Reception
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