If AI could create and deliver personalised learning experiences in real-time, would we still need instructional designers?
The answer isn’t as simple as you think, because the human touch in learning design is evolving, not disappearing.
AI in Learning Design: A Game Changer or Just a Tool?
Artificial intelligence is transforming how we design and deliver learning experiences. From adaptive learning systems that personalise content in real-time to AI-generated assessments that measure progress more accurately, AI in education is advancing at an incredible pace. But does this mean instructional designers are becoming obsolete?
How AI is Revolutionising Learning & Development
AI brings efficiency and scalability to learning design, making education more accessible and personalised than ever before.
Key AI capabilities in L&D:
- Personalisation at Scale – AI can analyse learner data to tailor courses to individual needs, improving engagement and knowledge retention.
- Automated Content Generation – AI tools can generate and update learning materials quickly, reducing development time and costs.
- Real-Time Insights – AI-powered analytics track learner progress and provide instant feedback, enabling continuous improvement.
- 24/7 Learning Support – AI-powered chatbots and virtual tutors provide on-demand assistance, answering queries and reinforcing concepts.
- Language Translation & Accessibility – AI can eliminate language barriers, making learning materials accessible to global audiences.
Discover more about AI-driven innovation in learning in our latest blog post on how learning can be brought to life with AR and VR.
Why We Still Need Human Expertise in Learning Design
While AI can automate many aspects of instructional design, it cannot replicate human intuition, creativity, and ethical judgment.
What humans bring to the table:
- Contextual Understanding – AI lacks the ability to interpret industry-specific needs, corporate culture, and emotional intelligence in learning.
- Empathy-Driven Learning – Effective learning experiences require a human-centred approach to ensure content is engaging and motivational.
- Creative and Critical Thinking – AI can generate content, but human designers bring strategic and creative insights essential for impactful learning experiences.
- Ethical Considerations – AI-generated content requires human oversight to prevent bias, misinformation, and ethical concerns.
- Adaptability in Real-World Contexts – While AI identifies patterns, human designers apply insights to real-world scenarios, refining learning experiences accordingly.
For further reading on AI’s impact on instructional design, explore this research by Cornell University on how large language models are shaping instructional design.
The Future of Learning: A Hybrid Approach
AI is not here to replace instructional designers; it is here to enhance their capabilities. By integrating AI’s automation and data-driven insights with human creativity and strategic thinking, the future of learning will be more dynamic and impactful than ever before.
Key trends shaping AI and human collaboration in learning design:
- Blended AI-Human Learning Models – AI enhances efficiency, but human input ensures engaging, emotionally resonant learning experiences.
- AI-Powered Learning Analytics – Leveraging data insights allows for refined learning programs and accurate impact measurement.
- Microlearning and Adaptive Learning – AI-driven microlearning modules offer real-time personalisation based on learner progress.
- Immersive Technologies – The fusion of AI with VR/AR creates interactive and experiential learning environments.
Conclusion: The Best of Both Worlds
AI is a powerful tool that, when strategically integrated with human expertise, can redefine learning design. It’s not about replacing instructional designers but empowering them to create more effective, engaging, and ethical learning experiences.
At TTRO, we believe in harnessing AI to drive innovation while preserving the essential human touch in education.
How do you see AI influencing the future of instructional design?
