IKEA-level programming workshops
People commonly refer to any task that involves programming as computer science. While there may be some similarities, this is like referring to building IKEA furniture »
What makes a spoiler
I'm grateful that writers typically highlight "spoiler alerts", so that I can choose whether or not I want to keep reading before it's too late. But »
On multitasking
Multitasking provides the illusion of productivity. Even though I know that I get more done when I focus on one thing at a time, I often »
Propaganda and art
During a recent trip to Munich, I was reflecting on my conflicting feelings about art that was commissioned by the Nazis for use as propaganda. If »
Brainstorming with thick markers
Drawing with thick markers makes it hard to draw small details. But, often when brainstorming on paper, I would find myself using the same pen regardless »
reCAPTCHA for phone calls
With the dramatic rise in robocalls, I find myself constantly being interrupted throughout the day. As a result, I often second guess whether or not it's »
Goodhart's Law
Goodhart's Law reminds us that when a measure becomes a target, it ceases to be a good measure. Similar to Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle, the act of »
Default to "yes"
If you're often plagued by indecision, make a pact with yourself t0 default to "yes". (Or you could just ask Shonda Rhimes.) In other words, you »
Checklists make us SMART
Setting SMART objectives makes us more productive. But, even those who advocate for this often end up with goals that are vague or amorphous. To prevent »
What makes STEM classes different
The current zeitgeist emphasizes increasing the number of students pursuing STEM. Many hypothesize that classroom instruction is one of the reasons there are disproportionately high failure »