AI is everywhere right now - popping up in learning platforms, email tools, CRMs, and even in how trainers create materials. But when it comes to training delivery, what’s genuinely useful and what’s just marketing fluff?
If you're running a training business, you don’t have time to wade through the noise. So here’s a breakdown of where AI actually adds value in training delivery, and where it’s probably not worth your energy (yet).
AI writing tools (like ChatGPT or Claude) are already being used to speed up content creation. Trainers and instructional designers are using them to:
Draft outlines for new courses
Generate quiz questions or case studies
Rewrite existing content in plainer English or for different levels
These tools don’t replace subject matter expertise, but they can save hours on first drafts or admin-heavy updates.
Some LMS platforms now use AI to adapt the learner journey based on their performance, preferences or job role. That could mean:
Recommending follow-on modules based on quiz results
Offering revision resources for weaker areas
Skipping content a learner already knows
For companies offering eLearning or blended models, this is a practical way to make the experience feel more tailored without manually managing every learner.
AI tools can now give basic feedback on written responses or auto-mark quizzes. For training businesses delivering at scale (especially with apprenticeships or compliance-based programmes), this reduces admin without compromising learner experience.
Just make sure it’s clear to learners when they’re getting AI feedback versus trainer input, as blurring that line can dent trust.
AI is quietly improving operations behind the scenes. For example:
Tagging and routing learner queries with AI-powered chatbots
Summarising feedback forms to surface themes
Predicting drop-off points in a learner’s journey
It’s not the flashy stuff, but this is where a lot of the time-saving happens for training teams.
AI-enhanced search (like semantic search in LMS platforms) helps learners find relevant content quickly, even if they don’t use the exact title or keyword. This improves UX and keeps learners engaged, especially in larger content libraries.
The idea of a fully AI-powered trainer might make headlines, but in reality? It’s a long way off, especially for soft skills, leadership, or safety-critical topics where nuance and facilitation matter.
Learners still want real human interaction, especially in live or blended training environments. AI might support the trainer, but it’s not replacing them anytime soon.
Some platforms claim to track emotions through facial expressions or “predict” engagement using webcam analysis. This tech exists, but the results are patchy and, frankly, a bit intrusive. Most learners - and trainers - aren’t keen on it.
Stick to more reliable indicators of engagement like activity tracking, feedback forms and completion rates.
Some AI tools now claim to create entire courses in minutes. While they can pull together content, the quality is rarely high enough for commercial delivery; especially in regulated or specialist sectors.
You still need proper learning design, SME review, and quality assurance. AI can help speed up drafts, but it can’t replace a proper instructional process.
Not all chatbots are helpful. If the bot can’t answer basic learner questions (like “When does my course start?” or “Where’s my certificate?”), it just frustrates users. The key is to keep it focused and useful, and not pretend it’s a personal tutor.
If you’re exploring AI for training delivery, start with areas where it can clearly save time or improve quality, without needing a huge tech investment.
Here’s a good place to begin:
Use AI to draft course outlines or assessments
Let your LMS provider show you any AI features that reduce admin
Trial automated feedback or marking for eLearning content
Try using tools powered by language models (like ChatGPT) to summarise learner feedback, simplify policy documents, or spot trends in open-text responses.
And above all - keep your focus on learner outcomes. If a tool doesn’t improve the learning experience or your operational efficiency, it’s probably not worth the hype.
AI’s not going away, but it’s also not a magic bullet. The training companies getting it right are the ones using AI to enhance what they already do well; not replace it. Human expertise, great delivery, and strong client relationships still matter most.
If you’re curious about what AI can actually do for your training business - and what’s just tech theatre - it’s worth keeping a critical eye and testing small.
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