The Future of Artificial Intelligence in Learning and Development

From the moment you wake up and check your smartphone, ask Alexa to add milk to the shopping list, or drive to work using vehicle technology such as Lane Assist, you are using Artificial Intelligence (AI). Whether we realise it or not, AI is consistently used in our daily lives but what does it mean for Learning and Development (L&D)?

In today's business and economic landscape, L&D encompasses far more than providing employees with training, it is the backbone of any organisation's long-term success. It can help to create positive company culture and retain employees alongside enhancing knowledge and providing the opportunity to upskill or reskill. As AI becomes the norm, it is necessary to consider whether it can be a useful tool for L&D professionals to provide meaningful learning.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Learning and Development (L&D)

Modern learners have evolved expectations in L&D, gone are the days of only attending classroom training sessions. They now expect accessible, interactive learning experiences anywhere, anytime, and on any device. To meet these expectations, we must develop a broader understanding of instructional design and learning technologies and recognise the importance of investing in employee development.

AI may not be suitable for all aspects of learning right now, but L&D professionals should be open to utilising any supportive tool that increases efficiency and personalisation whilst saving time and reducing costs.

“AI and its offshoot, machine learning, will be a foundational tool for creating social good as well as business success.”

Mark Hurd

So, how do we incorporate AI into L&D? Let’s take a look at a few examples:

ChatGPT for Content Creation

There are several tools that leverage the power of ChatGPT for content creation. Using ChatGPT can be quick and efficient, however as it relies on online data and algorithms, output can lack emotion and accuracy which will devalue content.

These tools can be helpful in the creation of keywords, hashtags or generalised content, such as soft skills but are unlikely to deliver optimal results for specific topics such as a new vehicle launch, product, or Driver Assistance Technology (DAT).  

Every ChatGPT tool has unique capabilities, choosing one that aligns with a specific need and ‘training’ the tool is vital to gaining on-topic, generalised results.

AI and eLearning

AI has the capacity to emulate human reasoning and decision-making which enhances the efficiency of eLearning endeavours through customisation of learning methods.

Intelligent algorithms can analyse learner data and take into consideration factors such as performance, learning style and progress. This allows users to experience personalised content and activities throughout their learning, being especially useful for targeting individual needs, assisting in retention and giving targeted feedback.

Learning Management System (LMS) VS AI-Powered LMS

A traditional Learning Management System (LMS), typically used for compliance, HR and employee training, provides software to assign and manage training and create consistent learning environments with easy reporting and tracking. 

An AI-powered LMS takes it a step further by incorporating traditional LMS functions with the addition of AI to boost customisation and provide flexible analysis.

It works by collecting data and applying learning algorithms to provide users with a personalised learning pathway. The user's existing knowledge is tested, and their learning pathway is adapted to better suit their needs. Using AI allows the system to search and analyse the content library to suggest useful materials for the user.

Not only does this improve content accessibility, but it also results in better learning outcomes, higher completion rates, and greater retention.

This makes the quality of the learning framework much higher than traditional LMSs.

Conclusion

As with many new technologies, AI often sparks concern regarding the impact on existing jobs. However, in a domain where content and data play a vital role, there is no need for apprehension. 

The future is not about whether humans or AI tools should create learning materials or courses, but how they will work together. AI should be used in a supportive role to give L&D professionals time to focus on what they excel at: creativity and innovation.