We all pursue talent. Success has become as important as developing a great product, and many companies are falling into a bind. The problem is that demand for people with AI skills is rapidly increasing, but supply is not keeping up. The OECD points this out. Many of us need AI expertise, but few job postings actually require it.
However, a promising trend is emerging and it is taking place in Europe. There are several things happening in AI education on the continent and in the UK. An experiment in using AI to change the way people learn. These are glimpses into the workforce of the future and how the next generation will approach problem-solving and collaboration in a world increasingly using AI.
Let’s look at some examples and consider how they can help companies rethink their approach to talent.
Training teachers to leverage AI – The Manchester story
The University of Manchester is integrating generative AI in the development of future educators, using tools critically, creatively and thoughtfully, and combining AI suggestions with student knowledge and experience.
This suggests a future where employees are comfortable co-creating with AI, rather than being consumers of training. Future generations will expect AI to assist them in their daily tasks. And the real competitive advantage will not be in whether people use AI, but in how they use it responsibly and ethically. UNESCO’s position is spot on and focuses on enhancing human capabilities rather than replacing them.
Build AI skills from scratch: AI-ENTR4YOUTH
AI-ENTR4YOUTH is a program that brings together Junior Achievement Europe and partners from 10 European countries. Here, AI is integrated into entrepreneurship education, and students use AI tools to tackle real-world problems with a focus on innovation and European values.
This will lead to early development of practical AI literacy and connect AI and entrepreneurship. Ability to identify opportunities and try new ideas. Importantly, we are expanding the pool of AI talent by reaching students who might choose business over a technical degree.
Skill gaps can be closed. Companies frustrated by the lack of AI talent should ask themselves how they can proactively support or emulate programs like AI-ENTR4YOUTH to build the workforce they need.
Personalized learning and impact: A socialized perspective
Social Tides champions European education innovators. Its efforts focus on projects that use AI to create more customized learning experiences, especially for students who need additional support or have diverse learning styles. AI helps personalize content, act as mentors, and build a community around students.
The common denominator is human oversight. AI provides recommendations and insights, but humans are still the ones making decisions and providing support. This aligns with AI business best practices as leaders seek to make learning an integral part of their work.
Important questions for leaders
What does this mean for decision makers? Here are some questions to consider.
Learning Architecture: Are you adopting AI-assisted personalized learning paths internally? Talent and Pipeline: Are you shaping your future talent pool through partnerships with local schools and universities? Governance and Ethics: Do you have clear guidelines for the use of AI in training, ensuring fairness and transparency? Vendor Selection: Are you choosing AI tools that align with your company’s values and relevant regulations?
You could call these educational programs experiments, but they are an indication of how the future of work is shaping up. Companies that are paying attention now will retain better talent and build more adaptive, learning-driven organizations.
(Image source: ♔ “Laboratory” by Georgie R is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0.T)
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