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Businesses are increasingly using AI  for professional training, notably,  scenario-based learning for leadership development. This use of AI  can drastically improve the quality of these training programs and its outcomes by providing more realistic interactive scenarios.

Scenario-based learning is an immersive training strategy that allows the user to “experience” scenarios they might encounter in their professional role. Because these scenarios are just imitations of what a real-world scenario might look like, the user can gain something akin to hands-on experience with more room for mistakes.

This type of experiential learning has evolved over time. Early strategies might have involved several people acting out a scenario or computerized walkthroughs that present the user with a scenario and give them a series of choices for how to proceed at each stage.

However, with the advent of technology such as AI and VR, scenario-based learning has become much more sophisticated. The scenarios can be more realistic and immersive, with fully fleshed-out virtual stages and more organic conversations compared to the static decision trees of the past.

Scenario-based learning is particularly valuable when it comes to training for roles like leadership that have little room for error or involve a lot of interpersonal interactions. It can help hone reactions and decision-making skills before leaders actually have to perform. Leaders need to convey confidence and communicate well. They also often have to be decisive and ready to think on their feet. Scenario-based learning can prepare them for these situations without any real consequences if they make a mistake. 

For example, if the trainee were to hesitate or say something inappropriate during an AI-simulated training exercise, they would not be struggling in a conversation that really matters, and they could learn from their mistake. Or a program could simulate a situation in which a supplier fails to come through on time and the trainee needs to pivot. These training scenarios provide experience with much lower stakes while still preparing potential leaders for the realities of business.

The most common and notable ways AI is impacting this learning involves automating various elements and creating more dynamic scenarios. These advancements not only improve the quality of  learning but also often make the process simpler for companies, as AI reduces much of the work that humans need to do. Here are six ways AI can improve this effective learning process.

Companies frequently use AI to quickly analyze data. The data that will be analyzed by a scenario-based learning program depends on the specific program. However, data it may analyze include things like average speed of response, failure/success rate, comparisons between user scores and improvements over time. 

By getting a comprehensive overview of a person’s successes and where they have room for improvement, aspiring leaders can better understand where they should focus their energy in terms of improving their skills.

AI also allows for 24/7 support without the need for an on-call support team. AI can be programmed to answer many basic questions that users may have. This can allow users to approach their learning at any time of the night or day that is convenient for them, without being hindered by simple questions or technical issues.

As mentioned, AI can make scenarios much more realistic. For example, it can allow for more organic, dynamic conversations. Rather than pre-programmed static conversation trees, AI can adapt as the scenario is playing out. It can also provide more complex, variable scenarios with much less effort than previous technology offered. Further, AI can be used to support VR technology in creating, scaling and adjusting immersive environments.

Conversational practice using AI-powered learning programs can be much more realistic and fast-paced. As opposed to older scenario-based learning programs, where the actions were often essentially turn-based, AI-powered programs more closely mimic real-life conversations. This not only provides a more true-to-life experience but it also encourages the user to think and react more quickly.

AI can provide faster feedback compared to older systems of scoring and analysis because it can intelligently process and analyze information quickly with little to no intervention from humans. Further, it often can glean more detailed and nuanced information from an interaction than older technology could, offering more comprehensive feedback.

Personalization can often drastically improve training outcomes, as it helps users become accustomed to situations unique to their role or allows them to focus on their own personal areas for improvement. Various aspects of scenarios can be personalized, from the very simple such as the use of your name, to the more complex, such as real-time developments created as you progress. The latter could be based on the program's assessment of your personal progress and needs.

There are many different AI-powered tools that organizations can use to provide scenario-based learning or to help develop these programs. These include:

• ^®: This is an AI-powered screen recorder and video editor, which can help organizations develop training videos. 
• ™: Organizations can use ChatGPT Plus to script and generate training videos.
• ™: Claude can generate code and creative works that businesses can use to develop various digital training materials.
• ™: Copysmith can generate and edit various types of content that organizations can use as training materials. 
• ™: Companies can use H5P to develop interactive content. 
• ^®: Organizations can use Jasper to develop content for online courses. 
• ^®: Storyline can develop customized interactive courses.

While AI can be a highly useful tool, you need to be aware of its limitations and not allow it to become a crutch. Organizations should ensure that human training specialists are still aware of how to teach leadership skills as well as the ins and outs of AI-powered scenario-based learning programs. 

The latter efforts will allow trainers to work with the AI and provide useful supplemental materials and training that will enhance the education provided by the AI programs. It can also allow them to identify and fill any learning gaps in the programs. As such, you should regularly assess skill gaps in your training team and help them develop these skills as needed. 

AI-powered tools can improve or scale up your existing training materials, or replace and update them completely. To determine what tools to use and how to develop materials for your organization’s specific needs, it’s important to assess your goals and existing skills gaps. 

See how our Professional Development platform uses AI and scenario-based learning to address skills gaps and impact growth.