AI at Work: Driving Productivity or Diluting Critical Thinking?

AI is transforming the way we work. From drafting content and analysing data to automating routine tasks, it’s helping professionals move faster and deliver more than ever before. In fact, RMIT Online’s latest research report reveals that the average worker saves up to 9 hours a week using AI. But as productivity rises, a new question is emerging - what’s happening to our ability to think critically?
Are we using AI to enhance our judgement, or are we starting to outsource it?

Join Alex Wood (Founder, Code Black Consulting), Mark Byrne (Founder, Headspring), Courtney Blackman (Head of Partnerships, Director of the LawTech Hub & AI Clinic, Lander & Rogers) and Lani Cush (Fractional Strategic Transformation, Thinking Branded) as they debate the tension between efficiency and expertise. One side will argue that AI is a powerful productivity engine, freeing up time for higher-value thinking and enabling better outcomes at scale. The other will challenge whether overreliance on AI is quietly eroding core skills like problem-solving, creativity, and independent reasoning.
Drawing on real-world examples and emerging workplace trends, our speakers will unpack what it means to work alongside AI, and what skills will matter most in the future. At the end of the session, the audience will decide which side made the strongest case.

🗓️ Date: 26th May 2026

⏰ Time: 8am - 10am

📍 Location: Kaleide Theatre (360 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000) or

💸 Cost: FREE

This event is part of RMIT Online's Future Skills Fest, where we are serving up a whole week of free content and events led by some of the brightest minds in industry. Want to join in the conversation? Check out the lineup and RSVP to our other sessions at

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