Artificial Intelligence is a lot of things, but let's be clear: it's far from new. John McCarthy coined the term' artificial intelligence' at the first-ever AI conference back in 1956. That's how it's believed, anyway.
So, it's been around for quite a while, and we've come a long way since then.
Nowadays, it seems like everyone is talking about artificial intelligence and AI tools. People are asking questions like, "Will AI replace human intelligence altogether?" or "Will it take my job?
We aren't here to answer those questions. 
These are valid concerns, but we should also recognize that AI is not a magic bullet. It's a tool, a powerful one, but still just a tool.
So, when it comes to HR, we should absolutely care about AI. 
Many learning management systems (LMS) are already equipped with robust AI-based features that can significantly enhance training programs. 
These AI tools can make training faster, more efficient, and more tailored to individual learners.
It's not about AI replacing human intelligence; it's about AI augmenting and enhancing our abilities to learn and, by definition, to teach in the modern world.

How AI-powered learning benefits HR

Identifying knowledge gaps

Let's face it - traditional methods of identifying knowledge gaps have been painfully inadequate. It's like trying to find a needle in a haystack blindfolded. 

The job landscape of 2030 will be nothing like what we see today. In fact, 85% of the jobs that will exist in 2030 haven't even been invented yet, according to a study! 

So, AI doesn't just pinpoint knowledge gaps; it does so with precision and efficiency that (unfortunately) human-driven methods can only dream of. 

Enhanced discoverability

In a sea of information, finding the right learning content has always been a struggle. But with AI-powered learning platforms, it's like having a librarian at our disposal 24/7. 

AI enhances content discoverability to such an extent that it helps HR with categorising content properly and also makes the search function easier to use for learners.

Personalised learning

No two employees are exactly alike. 

AI can analyse an individual's learning preferences, pace, age, gender, and demographics to create a personalised learning experience. This personalisation not only boosts engagement but also accelerates skill development - which ultimately is the goal.

Reduced reliance on human trainers

Reducing our reliance on human trainers is absolutely important. Don't get me wrong, human trainers are fantastic, but they do have their fair share of limitations. 

First off, there's the issue of time constraints. Human trainers can only be in so many places at once. It's frustrating for employees to have burning questions or need guidance only to find out that their trainer is unavailable at that moment. 

AI doesn't suffer from time constraints or varying expertise levels. It's a learning coach 24/7, 365 days a year. Need help at 3 AM? No problem. 

Now, don't get me wrong; AI doesn't and cannot replace human trainers/coaches entirely, but it still complements our efforts in a way that no human can. 

Streamlined content creation

Creating content for L&D programs has always been very time-consuming. 

Subject matter experts have to squeeze in countless hours to craft training materials amidst their already hectic workloads. It's a real struggle!

But with AI, the process of content creation can become a breeze. 

Effortless learning assessment

Another thing that traditionally consumes hours and hours and hours of human effort is assessing employee learning. AI changes that. 

It automates the assessment process, providing insights into each employee's progress without the need for manual grading. 

Employees can get feedback instantly and see for themselves how they performed. Basically, AI can be used to deliver any type of assessment -that is, as long as it's digital.

Ethical considerations of AI-powered learning

As we embrace AI-powered learning, it's crucial to address ethical considerations:

First and foremost, we've got to talk about data privacy and security. AI thrives on data, and that might just include some pretty sensitive information about your employees.

Protecting that data is non-negotiable. 

Then there's the whole transparency and accountability deal. AI can make decisions that impact people's learning paths, and everyone deserves to know how those decisions are made. We need clear rules and mechanisms in place for when things go awry. 

This way, people should be able to challenge and fix any hiccups in the system.

And the AI-related challenge: biases. AI can unwittingly perpetuate the same biases that exist in our training data. That's a problem we need to tackle head-on. 

It's on HR to scrub those biases from the content and recommendations. I'm talking about levelling the learning field to ensure fair and equal learning opportunities for all.

Last but not least, let's talk about access. AI-powered learning tools should be up for grabs by everyone, no matter who they are or what they do in the organisation. 

It's time to make sure that these tools don't become some exclusive club – they're here to help everyone grow and succeed. 

Introducing AI to your learning: step-by-step

Assessment with purpose: Start by assessing your organisation's learning needs, not just because it's the "trendy" thing to do. Understand how AI can genuinely enhance your workforce's skills and knowledge.

Tech check: Ensure your IT infrastructure can handle the AI-powered learning tools. Don't be caught off guard by a system that can't keep up – it's frustrating and inefficient.

1. Data discovery: Dive into your data. What kind of information do you have, and how can I utilise it effectively? 
2. AI selection: Choose your AI-powered learning solution wisely. Not all AI is created equal. Go for the one that aligns best with your organisation's goals and culture.
3. Content curation: Don't just throw any content at your employees. Curate material that's relevant, engaging, and personalised. Nobody wants to be stuck with bland, one-size-fits-all training.
4. Training the trainers: Your instructors and facilitators need to be AI-savvy too. They should understand how to work alongside AI and guide employees effectively. AI is not there to take their job but to facilitate it.
5. Champion success stories: Celebrate wins! Share stories of employees who've excelled through AI-powered learning. This motivates others and keeps the momentum going.
6. Ethical vigilance: Finally, stay vigilant on the ethical front. Ensure data privacy, transparency, and fairness in the AI-powered learning journey. It's not just about progress; it's about responsible progress.

Final thoughts

The age of AI-powered learning has dawned, and it's not just a passing trend.
We've seen the potential it holds, from revolutionising employee development to unleashing unprecedented levels of productivity. 
So, as we march forward into this new world of AI in learning, let's remember a few things. 
It's not about replacing humans; it's about augmenting them. It's not about mindlessly gobbling up data; it's about harnessing it responsibly. It's not about just keeping up with anything new; it's about finding what genuinely works for your organisation and its people.
Ultimately, it's about helping individuals grow, thrive, and reach their full potential.