[hueyluey]

I think all tools that allow you to externalize thinking can have a similar effect (not trying to diminish how novel AI / ML can be, just making a few connections)

For example: when you write equations on a piece of paper and then manipulate the symbols until a solution appears. This can actually feel surprising and can work like a feedback mechanism ("bouncing some ideas of")

Another example: when you play an instrument, particularly with weird effects...the sounds that come out of it can be surprising even for the person that plays them, again creating a feedback loop