Learning While Working Podcast

In this episode of the Learning While Working podcast Rustica Lamb and Robin explore how to leverage AI as a powerful tool to enhance your productivity and creativity, learn how to effectively prompt, and stay conscious of the ethical implications of AI in the learning and working sphere. She has recently run the Elab AI program, which aimed to introduce a series of AI tools to learning professionals. It tested and evaluated various AI tools and discovered their potential to save significant amounts of time for learning designers.About Rustica LambRustica Lamb is a hands-on learning professional who is passionate about experimenting with new technologies and exploring how they can transform learning.  She is the founder of Bloom Learning Technologies, an international award-winning learning technologies company that is bringing the cost of elearning way, way down. They help organisations create engaging learning experiences, whilst supporting the business and budget goals.Key takeaways:Learning Designers can save about 40-60 hours per month through AI tools. By using this saved time, L&D professionals can focus on improving quality and fostering creativity. It  is important to remember that AI does not replace the expertise and insights of learning designers, so there needs to be human involvement along the process.Embracing AI in workplace learning is crucial for staying relevant, and Rustica points out that it is similar to the transition from traditional to e-learning.There is a need for expert guidance and coaching when using AI, to ensure accurate and reliable results from AI systems and maximising their potential in learning design.Chapters:(00:00:00) The importance of spending time playing with the tools.(00:01:19) What is the eLab.ai program?(00:02:23) Key takeaways and insights from eLab.ai.(00:04:13) Why humans won’t be replaced by AI.(00:06:41) Generating the ‘core skeleton’.(00:11:25) Where creativity sits in the world of AI.(00:15:25) The importance of coaching.(00:18:23) Rustica’s greatest gem of wisdom about using AI tools for learning design.Links from the podcast Connect with Rustica on LinkedInVisit the Bloom Technologies websiteFind out more eLab.ai Read ‘Scary Smart’ by  Mo GawdatExplore FuturepediaListen to Moonshots & MindsetsListen to Augmented reality for learning with Rustica Lamb 

In this episode of the Learning While Working Podcast, Markus Bernhardt explores AI discussions with learning technology vendors, and the important topics of understanding the different types of AI being deployed and the value they add. We also touch on the critical role of training data and its reliability in AI solutions, and the rush toward generative AI and its impact on long-term strategic thinking.About  Markus BernhardtAs a Fellow of the Learning Performance Institute (LPI) and member of both the Forbes Technology Council and HBR Advisory Council, Markus Bernhardt is recognised as a global authority for AI and Learning. Markus is an accomplished author, panellist, and speaker. His leadership experience as CEO spans the direction of a for-profit educational institution as well as the stewardship of a charitable educational institution in the UK, with significant contributions in both executive and non-executive board roles.Key takeaways:Discerning between generative and non-generative AI deployment is essential for understanding AI's contribution to learning. It is beneficial for instructional designers, expediting tasks like summarising content, crafting questions, and facilitating collaboration with subject matter experts.The ideal landscape has AI-powered tools that offer real-time support, drawing from an organisation's internal data to provide personalised performance assistance.Adaptive learning journeys emerge as an exciting application, using AI to tailor learning experiences to individual strengths and weaknesses, thus enhancing learning outcomes.Chapters:(00:00:00) Introduction.(00:01:38) Navigating the marketplace for technologies and solutions for the learning space.(00:05:22) The impact of the ‘sudden’ rush of AI.(00:09:46) Internal training of data.(00:15:23) The way we work with language models in organisations and workplaces.(00:19:13) interesting AI applications in L&D at the moment.Links from the podcast Connect with Markus Bernhardt on LinkedInRead Markus article on 5 Key Questions to Ask AI Vendors & How to Understand the AnswersRead all of Markus Learning Guild articles  

In this episode of the Learning While Working Podcast, we explore how AI technologies can be used to increase the efficiency of instructional designers. We tackle the challenges and ethical concerns of using AI-generated tools, focusing on their limitations and potential misinterpretations. Get insights into the importance of maintaining the human element in instructional design, especially in areas like assessment design.About  Cara NorthCara North has worked in the instructional design field for more than a decade and has won multiple awards for her learning experiences. Cara has worked in both higher education and corporate, and runs her own consulting business, The Learning Camel. Some of the clients The Learning Camel has served include Universal Records, WesBanco, NASA, Daisy and the National Association for Talent and Development (ATD).Key takeaways:Generative AI can be used for brainstorming and translation. Tools like Chat GPT are valuable for creating first drafts, but they lack the ability to capture context-specific language and formality. As such, human input is required for this purpose.There are tools that are useful in the localization and translation of content. Cara gives examples of Microsoft PowerPoint's built-in translation tool and Sonix.ai, which help in rapidly reproducing content in different languages, improving efficiency in the learning design process.The use of AI avatars for role-playing exercises in instructional design helps avoid logistical challenges associated with producing videos. However, these AI avatars require human input for more nuanced performance.Chapters:(00:00:00) Introduction.(00:01:13) How Cara uses AI in her learning design process.(00:04:42) Some key AI tools to check out.(00:06:25) What human input is needed from AI translation tools.(00:10:19) AI-generated avatars.(00:15:39) Authenticity in art and AI.(00:20:16) Cara’s advice for instructional design and using genetic AI now.Links from the podcast Connect with Cara on LinkedInCheck out The Learning Camel 

In this episode of the Learning While Working Podcast, Britt Andreatta is back to discuss the impact of AI on organisations and the skills needed to navigate this shifting landscape. As an expert on brain-driven approaches to learning and a leading voice in the field, she shares some truly valuable insights. Tune in to learn more about the need for a clear strategy in L&D, developing strong change management skills and why we need to hone in scientific literacy and verification skills.About  Brit AndreattaDr. Britt Andreatta is an internationally-recognised thought leader who creates brain science-based solutions for today's challenges. As CEO of Brain Aware Training, Inc., Britt Andreatta draws on her unique background in leadership, neuroscience, psychology, and learning to unlock the best in people and organisations.Key takeaways:AI's influence calls for robust change management skills, and the technology’s verification will need to be a key quality in job requirements – on par with communication and time management.The imperative of reskilling is gaining prominence, with the World Economic Forum identifying a substantial global workforce needing retraining.AI-driven misinformation highlights the need for critical thinking and science literacy skills. The role of learning professionals will become ‘verifiers’, ensuring that AI-generated content is reliable while embracing the adaptability in a dynamic environment.Chapters:(00:00:00) Introduction.(00:01:57) How will AI change the types of skills that organisations need?(00:03:11) Change management skills.(00:05:12) Why is change not always successful?(00:07:00) Science literacy skills.(00:12:27) Become verifiers.(00:20:12) What should L&D be doing now to prepare for the future? Links from the podcast Connect with Britt on LinkedInVisit Britt’s WebsiteRead Wired To Resist 

In this episode of the Learning While Working Podcast, Megan Torrance joins the show to share what she is learning about using Chat GPT.  We focus on using Chat GPT to enhance the learning experience itself, and just using AI to generate content.About  Megan TorranceMegan Torrance is CEO and founder of TorranceLearning, which helps organisations connect learning strategy to design, development, data, and ultimately performance. Megan has more than 25 years of experience in learning design, deployment, and consultingKey takeaways:Chat GPT can act as an assistant for learning designers. It aids in structuring content and generating examples, particularly when subject matter experts may tire of providing numerous case examples. As a result, it helps designers craft more thorough and comprehensive learning materials.In the context of medical education, AI is employed to provide detailed feedback on learners' responses to case scenarios. This feedback is compared against expert responses to provide meaningful insights to learners. However, it's crucial to ensure that the AI never gives direct medical advice – the final decision must always be left up to the learner.Inform learners if the feedback they're receiving is AI-driven. This transparency ensures that learners understand the nature and source of their feedback and approach it with a degree of scepticism, especially in sensitive areas like medical education.Chapters:(00:00:00) Introduction.(00:01:11) What are some of the ways that ChatGPT can be used by learning designers?(00:02:40) Taking a simple approach.(00:07:39) Using AI in complicated areas in medical education and legal training.(00:10:46) Other ways AI is being used to put in a learning experience.(00:14:44) Using ChatGPT as an assistant.(00:16:46) Mitigating bias in AI.(00:18:37) Megan’s greatest general advice for learning designers in using ChatGPT.Links from the podcast Connect with Megan on LinkedInTorranceLearning’s WebsiteDownload Megan’s one-page practitioner's guide job aid to using ChatGPTWatch a recording of the ChatGPT Driven Instructional Design: Dreams, Results, and Horrors webinar  

AI tools like ChatGPT are being used in various industries, including marketing and learning. In this episode of the Learning While Working podcast, we are joined by Lynne McNamee to explore the fascinating and evolving world of AI tools for content creation. Robin and Lynne unpack how the quality of the generated content varies, applications of ChatGPT in L&D work, and why privacy and data sources are also limitations for generative AI tools.About  Lynne McNameeLynne is a creative and strategic thinker who leverages data and technology to lead innovative organisations to measurable results through inbound, social, content, video and traditional marketing. She is the president of Lone Armadillo Marketing Agency, where she has managed marketing campaigns for companies such as Avis, HP, and Bank of America. She was cited by The New York Times for innovations in marketing.Key takeaways:Ways to leverage ChatGPT for marketing: Lynne shares how she uses ChatGPT in her work, specifically in writing copy for blog posts and websites. It’s important to understand the search engine interface and user intent to generate effective content, to align with SEO strategies.Be aware of the language AI generates, as tools like ChatGPT tends to provide overly literal keywords, which can result in keyword stuffing and impact your SEO score negatively.Try out some other key AI tools, like Lumen5 and SonixAI. Lynne has been using these for tasks in video creation and transcription. She also reflects on why ChatGPT has gained the most attention compared to other tools, which is due to social proof and practical applications.Chapters:(00:00:00) Introduction.(00:01:25) How Lynne is using ChatGPT on a daily basis.(00:02:51) Lynne’s process of writing a blog post with the help of AI.(00:03:42) Considering SEO when using AI generated content.(00:06:25) The impact of quality from using ChatGPT.(00:08:12) Training AI to write learning material.(00:12:43) Some of the weaknesses of using a tool like ChatGPT.(00:19:28) Why has ChatGPT gained so much attention and widespread adoption?(00:20:38) Lynne’s main bit of advice around using AI at the moment.Links from the podcast Connect with Lynne on LinkedInLone Armadillo Marketing Agency’s WebsiteListen to Using learning campaigns to effectively drive behaviour change with Lynne McNameeCheck out Lumen5Try out Sonix AI  

In this episode of the Learning While Working Podcast, Ray Jimenez talks about how employees are using AI for learning. Ray will share practical examples of incorporating ChatGPT into the learning experience, such as learner familiarisation, troubleshooting, and coaching. About  Ray JimenezRay Jimenez Ph.D. is the Chief Learning Architect at Vignettes Learning, trainingmagnetwork.com and situationexpert.com. He has worked with the American Bankers Association, Neiman Marcus, the US Air Force, NASA, Blue Cross, Goodwill Industries, Pixar Studios, among others. Ray's expertise is in microlearning, story-based learning design, scenario-based learning design and creative problem solving.Key takeaways:There have been successful experiments using ChatGPT's integration in learning platforms, such as rapidly familiarising technicians with new subject matter, accelerating ISO certification processes, and enabling coaches to provide targeted prompts and expand learners' growth mindset.The potential for private data integration in ChatGPT offers exciting opportunities for companies, allowing learners to explore and interact with their own proprietary information, creating a closer connection between learning and real-life work situations.Working with AI involves recalibrating the way we think about learning, moving away from a reliance on content delivery and toward nurturing critical thinking, questioning, and debating skills, thus enabling learners to become more autonomous and better equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace.Chapters:(00:00:00) Introduction.(00:01:56) How ChatGPT can be used by learners.(00:05:04) On workplaces having their own Generative AI tools.(00:11:08) The idea of templates for learners.(00:16:00) Using AI for more hands-on and physical work.(00:19:34) Examples of using critical thinking alongside AI.(00:27:14) ChatGPT being more generalised than specialised. Links from the podcast Connect with Ray on LinkedIn5 Experiments in ChatGPT/Situation Expert  

In this episode, Robin is joined by Lars Hyland and Matt Linaker from Totara to discuss rethinking workplace learning in an AI-Driven World. The conversation focuses on the importance of shifting from content-driven strategies to more context-based and collaborative learning environments. About  Lars HylandLars Hyland is a seasoned expert in learning technology with over 27 years of experience. He has worked with various international organisations and educational institutions, including the University of Oxford and Deutsche Bank. Currently, he leads Totara's EMEA operations, focusing on talent development and productivity. About  Matt LinakerMatt has a multifaceted career in the field of learning and education, with a focus on technology-enhanced learning.  He is currently the Partner Onboarding and Enablement Lead at Totara Learning.Key takeaways:AI tools have gone mainstream. It is impacting creative arts and we can see how it has helped improve the way we work. There is potential for governments and organisations to have their own large learning models and AI to enhance learning while working.Content-driven models in the workplace have caused a disconnect between business goals and training outcomes. New technologies can assist in connecting people to the right people at the right time, and automated feedback can aid development.Easy access to the right content to the right people can help contextualise the learning process, and conversations and collaboration can help people come together quickly to solve problems and meet goals. Providing feedback and rewarding people in an intentional way, contextualised to the situation, can help motivate them to learn and to apply their knowledge effectively. Chapters:(00:00:00) Introduction.(00:01:35) What does the future of work look like?(00:04:59) How AI has gone mainstream.(00:10:13) Moving away from content-driven approaches.(00:15:32) L&D in Totara.(00:19:19) Building learning platforms for talent experience.(00:24:04) How can we make this future of learning happen now? Links from the podcast Connect with Lars on LinkedInConnect with Matt on LinkedinTotara’s WebsiteRead more about Matt's thoughts on Rethinking workplace learning in an AI-Driven World  

In this episode Robin and Danielle discuss the influence of AI on learning design, its potential to standardise educational experiences, and the importance of maintaining human skills like critical thinking in AI applications. It’s a fascinating discussion which delves into the creative potential of AI and self-learning. The recent ‘hype’ surrounding AI calls for continual learning and community collaboration to understand and leverage this technology effectively.About  DanielleDanielle is a Learning & Development and business professional with Fortune 100 experience. As a passionate learner and critical thinker, She has dedicated herself to navigating through the hype and staying up-to-date in the world of learning development. She is currently Chief Learning Strategist at Beyond the Sky: Custom Learning Solutions.Key takeaways:Embrace neural networks for creativity: Danielle highlights how neural networks excel at making unexpected connections and providing creative ideas without bias. By leveraging AI as an assistant, we can tap into new perspectives and unlock innovative solutions.Human skills in the AI Age: Critical thinking is an invaluable human skill that AI lacks. It’s important to nurture our critical thinking abilities and leverage our unique human qualities to complement AI technologies.Staying ahead in Learning & Development: The learning and development field must keep pace with technological advancements. There is a need for continuous learning, networking, and embracing new knowledge to create effective solutions. By staying informed and sharing expertise, we can shape the future of learning and development.Chapters:(00:00:00) Introduction.(00:01:32) Running an AI and L&D community of practice: what does that look like?(00:02:45) Common trends and questions people are asking in the community.(00:03:33) The risks of unregulated usage of AI within organisations.(00:07:43) Some great examples of leveraging AI.(00:15:58) Reassessing what it means to be human.(00:17:03) Using AI in creative work.(00:20:15) Danielle’s key piece of advice around using generative AI.Links from the podcast Connect with Danielle on LinkedInListen Daniellele’s podcast You in 2042 ... The Future of WorkFind out more about the AI in learning community of practice 

In this episode of the Learning While Working Podcast, David James joins the show to share his expertise and insights in Generative AI. David sheds light on why Generative AI is not simply a shortcut to faster and cheaper courses, but rather a disruptive force. He also talks about reinventing the learning process, the role of reflection, and how to not make your job redundant. About  DavidJosh Cavalier has been creating learning solutions for corporations, government agencies, and secondary education institutions for nearly thirty years. He is an expert in the field of Learning & Development. He has applied his industry experience to the application of ChatGPT and other Generative AI frameworks for business and life skills.Key takeaways:The big risk of relying solely on AI for producing course content is that it might render learning and development redundant. Instead, David encourages professionals to embrace the unique value they bring to address specific skills gaps in their organisation.Administrative tasks, be gone! Generative AI streamlines the learning experience by taking care of the administrative aspects, allowing educators and learners to focus more on effectively addressing real organisational challenges. By using internal data sets, Generative AI can help tackle the root of my performance  problems.It's about the learning process. Instead of relying solely on delivering information, the emphasis should be on enhancing the learning journey through practice, reflection, and behaviour change.Chapters:(00:00:00) Introduction.(00:01:38) What does Generative AI mean for L&D in the future?(00:05:08) How Generative AI can help us improve the actual learning process.(00:11:03]) Viewing AI as a co-pilot.(00:13:27) Distinguishing what L&D is.(00:17:18) What will be talking about AI in 10 years time?(00:21:38) David’s main piece of advice for leveraging Generative AI.Links from the podcast Connect with David on LinkedInFind out more about Learning360Read David’s article on What Future Does Generative AI Signal For L&D?