At Acton Academy, we believe education is more than rote memorization or acing standardized tests. It’s about fostering curiosity, creativity, and a deep sense of inquiry. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, recently highlighted a concept that resonates deeply with our philosophy: the importance of asking the right questions.
In an interview with The New York Times, Altman shared his perspective on the evolving role of intelligence in the age of AI. He argues that as AI tools like ChatGPT become more advanced, raw intelligence—traditionally celebrated as a hallmark of success—will be less critical. Instead, knowing how to ask the right questions will become the defining skill of the future. This paradigm shift has profound implications for how we approach education.
The Shift from Knowing to Questioning
Altman’s statement underscores a key reality: AI is exceptional at providing answers. What it cannot replace, however, is the uniquely human ability to frame meaningful, insightful questions. As AI handles more of the repetitive and analytical tasks, our value as humans will come from our ability to identify problems, think creatively, and engage critically with the world around us.
This aligns perfectly with what we nurture in Acton Academy learners. Here, our students are not passive recipients of knowledge but active participants in their education. Through Socratic discussions, real-world challenges, and independent quests, they learn to ask “why,” “how,” and “what if?” These skills will prepare them not just for the future of work but for life.
Questions as a Superpower
Altman describes the ability to ask great questions as a “superpower.” At Acton Academy, we see this superpower every day in the form of our learners’ curiosity. Whether they’re debating a philosophical question, designing a project, or tackling a community issue, their ability to ask thoughtful questions drives their learning.
This approach aligns with the entrepreneurial mindset we encourage. Entrepreneurs and leaders don’t have all the answers—they know how to frame the right questions to guide their decisions. In a world where AI tools can churn out answers faster than ever, asking better questions will be what sets great leaders apart.
Preparing for an AI-Enhanced World
The rise of AI doesn’t diminish the importance of education; it transforms it. We’re not preparing our learners for a future where intelligence is obsolete. Instead, we’re equipping them to thrive in a world where intelligence is amplified by AI, and human skills—like creativity, empathy, and critical thinking—are more important than ever.
Our learners aren’t just future workers; they’re future problem-solvers, creators, and leaders. By teaching them how to ask bold, meaningful questions, we’re preparing them to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world with confidence and purpose.
Conclusion
At Acton Academy, we’re inspired by the idea that asking the right questions can be more powerful than having the right answers. As AI continues to evolve, this skill will only grow in importance. Together, we’re shaping learners who will not only adapt to the future but lead it—one question at a time.
Let’s empower the next generation to embrace their curiosity and unleash their superpower of asking the right questions. What question will you ask today to spark change in your life or community?
