Salih Mansur is an educator, researcher, and technologist who has dedicated his career to making education simple, practical, and transformative. From his early struggles with learning to becoming a recognized voice in digital literacy and AI in education, Mansur’s journey reflects his belief that technology and psychology together can unlock human potential.
What first inspired you to work at the intersection of education and technology?
Education has always been my passion. Technology gave me many second chances; it helped me learn faster, organize better, and connect with opportunities. I realized that when technology and education come together, knowledge becomes accessible for everyone.
How do you see AI transforming learning today?
AI is like a personal mentor. It simplifies complex ideas, adapts to individual learning styles, and makes education available anytime. Instead of one-size-fits-all, AI creates personalized paths for students, workers, or lifelong learners.
Why is digital literacy so critical now?
Digital literacy goes beyond knowing how to use apps. It’s about building confidence and control in a digital world. Without it, people feel left out. With it, they can manage daily life, work, and education with confidence. My research shows that when adults develop digital skills, their self-confidence rises too.
You often mention psychology in your approach. How does that fit in?
Our brain is powerful, but it needs direction. Psychology helps us understand motivation and habits. Instead of fighting against routines, we can transform them. For example, shifting time from gossip or endless scrolling to joining knowledge-based groups on LinkedIn. Small changes make a big difference.
How do you use AI personally?
I use AI to brainstorm ideas, summarize articles, and prepare teaching materials. It’s a partner in thinking, not a replacement. The goal is to extend human intelligence, not outsource it.
What do you mean by “backdoor learning”?
It’s learning that feels natural. Think of a game that teaches math or an article that improves your vocabulary without you noticing. AI can create those engaging, effortless learning opportunities so education becomes discovery, not pressure.
Why focus so much on adult learners?
Adults are often overlooked. Many of my students are drivers, workers, or parents who didn’t grow up with digital tools. Helping them build digital literacy opens doors to opportunities they thought were closed.
Some people are anxious about AI. How do you address that?
Fear is natural with new tools. But the answer is responsible use and AI literacy. People need to understand what AI can and cannot do, as well as how to use it ethically. Once they know it, fear often turns into empowerment.
What simple steps can people take to improve their routines with technology?
Make small shifts. Read one professional article instead of gossip. Watch a short tutorial instead of random videos. Join a group where people share ideas. It’s not about fighting habits, but redirecting energy toward growth.
What does the future of AI in education look like to you?
AI will not replace teachers. It will empower them. Imagine classrooms where AI handles grading and personalization, while teachers focus on creativity and human connection. That’s the future technology supporting, not replacing, the human touch.
What surprised you most in your journey so far?
That learning never stops. I discovered global collaborations, even with Oxford, through something as simple as LinkedIn. It showed me how technology removes barriers; you can be part of something big, no matter where you are.
What is your message to learners worldwide?
Don’t fear technology. Use it as your ally. Every search, every scroll, every click can become a chance to grow. Education is no longer confined to classroom settings; it’s now in your hands.
About Salih Mansur
Salih Mansur is an educator and researcher in digital literacy, psychology, and AI in education. He has authored multiple studies, including AI-Powered Digital Literacy for Adult Learners and AI as a Catalyst in Education, Adult Learning, and Digital Literacy. His mission is to create simple, practical, and accessible learning opportunities for all.
