Craft Before Code: Ian Tan on AI, Data Literacy, and Protecting Human Voice

Hi AISHK Community,

When AI can write an essay, generate synthetic art, and code apps in seconds, where does true human capability begin?

In our latest Chair Sessions episode, I sat down with Ian Tan—lecturer at NTU and former corporate leader across Microsoft, Razer, and Lenovo—for a deep, unfiltered conversation on craft, authorship, and the realities of AI adoption.

Here are a few key takeaways from our discussion:

• ✍️ Craft Before Code: Ian’s philosophy is built on a clear sequence: Words, Visuals, and AI. AI should augment human capability and bridge technical skill gaps, not replace fundamental thinking or judgment.