The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) and extended reality (XR) technologies is transforming the landscape of learning and development (L&D). As organizations strive to remain competitive by upskilling and reskilling their workforce, L&D professionals must understand how to effectively leverage these emerging technologies.
The eBook “Building Compelling Use Cases for Emerging Learning Technologies,” based on a webinar sponsored by VPS Learning, provides valuable insights and best practices for creating effective use cases for AI and XR in L&D.
A key takeaway: L&D professionals do not need to be experts in the intricacies of AI and XR, but they should develop “platform vision” — a functional understanding of what these technologies can and cannot do. This understanding is essential for defining use cases where these solutions can have the most significant impact on learning outcomes and business goals.
In the eBook, Bob Szostak, Director of Customer Solutions for VPS, and Nicole Fairchild, VP of Enterprise Training for Entergy, stress the importance of L&D teams collaborating with other functions within the organization to build targeted AI use cases that address specific learning and business needs. They highlight the potential benefits of AI in L&D, such as personalized learning journeys, real-time performance support, and up-to-date learning content.
Fairchild and Szostak repeatedly stressed that the use of AI in learning is not about replacing humans but enhancing the effectiveness of learning teams and learning professionals. By automating administrative tasks, such as content curation and creating personalized learning paths, AI frees up L&D professionals to focus on higher-value, strategic initiatives.
A critical key to success in using AI is conducting thorough needs analyses to determine if AI is the best solution for a given situation. This process should start with the desired business outcome and work backward to identify the most effective training methods. The Brandon Hall Group™ Learning-Performance Convergence Model, showcased in the eBook, illustrates this approach.
Lastly, the eBook underscores the importance of balancing the potential benefits of AI with the risks of misuse or misapplication. Establishing a robust governance framework is critical to ensure the ethical, responsible and effective implementation of AI in L&D.
“Building Compelling Use Cases for Emerging Learning Technologies” is a must-read for learning professionals looking to harness the power of AI and XR in their organizations. By leveraging the insights and best practices shared in this eBook, L&D teams can confidently navigate the exciting and transformative world of emerging learning technologies.
