The Changing Learning Landscape: Why AI Needs a Human Touch

The learning landscape is evolving at pace.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer on the sidelines; it’s front and centre, transforming how we access, deliver, and engage with learning. From AI-powered tutors and automated content generators to real-time translation and adaptive learning platforms, the opportunities for creating smarter, more personalised learning are immense.

The Rise of AI in Corporate Learning

According to a report by Acumen Research and Consulting, the global corporate eLearning market was valued at approximately $109.6 billion in 2024, with AI playing a growing role in driving this growth. AI can now generate content in seconds, analyse learner data to personalise pathways, and simulate immersive scenarios, enhancing both scalability and learner engagement.

Widely used industry tools are now embedding AI. Articulate 360 and Storyline, mainstays in rapid eLearning development, have introduced features like AI-assisted scriptwriting, voiceover generation, and content translation. These capabilities enable learning designers to develop high-quality modules more quickly than ever, making it easier to scale delivery without compromising visual polish or interactivity.

The Gap Between Tech and Impact

However, the 2024 CIPD Learning at Work report found that only 25% of L&D professionals believe their learning tech truly meets the needs of their people. Why? Because while AI can deliver information, it doesn’t automatically create understanding, relevance, or behaviour change.

That’s where the human element remains, not just valuable, but vital.

At Rio, we embrace AI, but never let it replace what makes learning meaningful. Our bespoke learning solutions are rooted in empathy, behavioural insight, and lived experience. We utilise AI to enhance, not define, our processes, supporting content research, streamlining administration, and improving accessibility. However, the structure, tone, and impact of our content stem from real people who understand how to engage learners both emotionally and practically.

Carbon Literacy in Local Government

Take our work with local authorities rolling out Carbon Literacy training: while we utilise AI to assist with content adaptation for diverse audiences, the real value lies in relatable storytelling, peer discussion, and sector-specific relevance, all developed by experienced human designers and facilitators.

We also understand learning doesn’t happen in isolation. Culture, collaboration, and context all play a role. That’s why our solutions are co-created with our clients, tailored to their specific needs, and shaped by the unique challenges they face. We don’t believe in off-the-shelf answers to complex, human problems.

And the results speak for themselves. Across multiple Rio-designed programmes, we’ve seen completion rates of over 90%, and learner feedback shows a consistent increase in confidence, motivation, and readiness to act—something automation alone has yet to deliver.

Ready to Rethink Your Learning Strategy?

As AI continues to evolve, so will learning. But at Rio, we’re clear on this: technology should serve people, not replace them. It should amplify the creativity, empathy, and nuance that only humans can bring to the learning process.

Because while AI can power the platform, it’s people who make learning matter.

Unsure where to start? Get in touch with Rio