The question "Do you design learning experiences with AI in mind?” has come up A LOT lately.
Yes. We do. Of course. But what does this truly signify?
The Role of AI in Learning Design
It could be driven by a desire to innovate and stay ahead of the curve or a fear of being left behind in the rapidly evolving landscape of education and learning. Whatever the motivation, it prompts me to reflect on the role of AI in learning design.
While AI undeniably offers numerous advantages, such as a significant enabler of personalized learning experiences and enhanced efficiency, fixating solely on its capabilities overlooks the broader context of learning. AI should be viewed as A TOOL—a facilitator of learning rather than a replacement for it.
As professionals, we can harness AI to expand the horizons of learning, offering learners unique and tailored experiences. However, it's essential to recognize that AI is just one piece of the puzzle, complementing artfulness and the human touch rather than supplanting it entirely.
The Role of Humanity in Learning Design
In our pursuit of knowledge, we can’t lose sight of the importance of curiosity and for that matter, our humanity. As highlighted in this recent article from Workday, the shift from measuring IQ to LQ—the learning quotient—reflects a broader transition towards valuing curiosity and continuous learning. LQ requires a “mindset change.” There has to be a culture of trust that starts at the top and middle managers have the opportunity to be “role models” of how to be and remain curious.
Measuring LQ may seem daunting, but I've seen it's very possible. Through formative assessments, reflection, analytics, performance, and behavioral observations, we can gauge individuals' capacity for growth and adaptability.
Balancing Convenience and Curiosity
In conversations about AI usage, it's crucial to strike a balance between convenience and curiosity. While AI can streamline tasks, we must also encourage teams to embrace the challenge of learning and growing through getting things done without solely relying on AI and the right questions.
At Desklight, AI is indeed part of our toolkit, but our primary focus lies in nurturing genuine curiosity and fostering an environment where learning and growth thrive by creating ecosystems of learning experiences.
In a world driven by AI, the real winners are those who choose to remain curious and continue exploring the boundless possibilities of being a real and gritty learner for life.
