Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a topic of much debate in today’s world, with some seeing it as the latest disruptive technology that will open up new possibilities for learning, working, and living. Others are concerned about the rate of AI acceleration, calling for a pause in the training of new systems to understand better the impact of such tools. However, disruptive technologies are not new and have been changing the way we live and work for decades, with consequences in the form of economic dislocation and social upheaval.
AI will have a significant impact on jobs and may even call into question the very fundamentals of work. While it is not clear how AI will play out across society in the longer term, history predicts that it has the potential to deliver short-term disruptions followed by long-term benefits, as seen in previous technological revolutions.
Unlike in previous industrial revolutions, we now have access to a wealth of learning resources that can teach people at scale, embolden communities that were previously excluded, and help mitigate occupational disruption. While it is forecasted that AI could replace the equivalent of 300 million full-time jobs, it also has the potential to create new roles, as 60% of workers are in occupations that did not exist in 1940.
The Role of AI in the Workforce Revolution
AI is the centerpiece of today’s workforce revolution, with 80% of businesses already implementing the technology into their operations or having employees use it to improve their workflows. As AI integrates across multiple industries, it is set to generate a slew of new roles, with some being an expansion of existing functions and others being entirely new.
Soft skills, especially leadership, will be in high demand as people navigate through change and disruption, which are more important now than ever. However, there will also be job dislocation, and this time, higher-paid white-collar jobs are at risk of being replaced by AI.
To avoid falling into irrelevance, every worker must be able to add value beyond what can be done by an intelligent machine. People must proactively learn new skills and embrace novel ways of working to support these changes in the global job market while maximizing the opportunities presented by these new occupations.
The Importance of Online Education and Lifelong Learning
Online education and lifelong learning will form the bedrock of upskilling initiatives, providing people with access to a range of resources, from micro-credentials to advanced degree programs and professional certificates from trusted and reputable universities and industry partners. With the demand for AI expertise skyrocketing, businesses are actively seeking professionals with AI skills.
Educational programs powered by AI will transform learners’ experiences from passive to interactive and immersive. AI can analyze individual learners’ strengths, weaknesses, and preferred learning styles to create tailored learning paths. AI-powered adaptive learning platforms can also continuously assess learners’ progress and provide real-time feedback, helping them focus on areas that require improvement.
AI-powered online learning makes it possible for every student to have an AI teaching assistant available 24/7, providing just-in-time contextual reminders to help them get unstuck or explain a concept differently. These advancements are ushering in a new chapter of learning that will help level the educational playing field.
The Need for Inclusive and Responsible Implementation of AI
While previous industrial revolutions and disruptive technologies have driven a wedge between those at the top and those at the bottom, AI has the ability to democratize the way we live, work, and learn. To reduce the world’s digital divide and embrace the next secular technology shift, educators, governments, enterprises, and individuals must align in ensuring AI is implemented inclusively and responsibly.
Only then will we unlock the true power of this technology, preparing our workers for the digital economy while creating a fairer and more equitable world for all.
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