In a previous article, I put forth my thoughts on how the world seem to be over-indulging in AI, specifically within the L & D space. Here, I want to lay further emphasis on why the human element is still so important.
In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, be it in Higher Education or the corporate world, the key decision makers are rapidly looking for quick AI-based solutions to primarily:
– fix/enhance the end user learning experience
– ensure they don’t appear to have fallen behind in this race to embrace AI and related learning technologies
In this melee, I feel it is very easy to forget that education is not merely about transferring knowledge but about cultivating meaningful, empathetic connections between learners and educators. By humanizing learning, we create environments where learners feel valued, understood, and motivated to engage deeply with their studies.
People take risks, admit ignorance, and push beyond their comfort zones only when they feel psychologically safe. And, this safety is only built through human relationships characterized by empathy, vulnerability, and mutual respect. While AI can provide judgment-free practice environments, it cannot create the deep trust necessary for transformative learning experiences.
Today, I see many large (and small) enterprise-level product companies moving largely towards e-Learning and self-learning platforms as the primary instruments recommended to their customers for product knowledge, while instructor-led training is at best, provided on-demand, by some. While I agree this can probably be a more cost-effective solution from both the organization and customer’s perspective, has it truly been producing the desired outcomes for the customer (and its end users) in the long run? I think not. And this is why, I have always maintained e-learning/self-learning platforms must serve as supplementary solutions where as the primary means for sustainable knowledge transfer must always be instructor-led. Organizations developing a robust TTT framework and executing it well would allow customers to be go into the future with more sustainable and transferrable knowledge that can then be further enhanced through self-paced learning.
At its core, humanizing learning recognizes the individuality of each learner (rather it MUST). Every learner brings a unique background, set of experiences, and learning style.
Empathy plays a crucial role in humanizing learning and development. Educators who show genuine care and understanding cultivate trust and a safe space for exploration and mistakes. Such environments encourage students to take intellectual risks, develop resilience, and build confidence. Moreover, incorporating social and emotional learning into curricula helps learners develop skills like empathy, self-awareness, and collaboration, essential for personal and professional success. This involves personalized learning pathways, where educators adapt content and methods to meet diverse needs, bringing in a sense of relevance and ownership to the learning process.
Technology offers tools to support learning. Interactive platforms, virtual classrooms, and AI-driven analytics can provide real-time feedback and tailored support. However, these tools must be used thoughtfully, complementing and supporting educators.
The goal should not be choosing between human and AI approaches, but rather leveraging AI to handle routine tasks—content curation, progress tracking, skill gap analysis—while allowing humans to focus on what they do best: inspire, coach, challenge assumptions, and create the emotional conditions where real growth can occur. The organizations that recognize this balance will develop not just more skilled workforces, but more engaged, creative, and adaptable human beings.
Retaining and enhancing the “human element” in learning transforms education into a more compassionate, inclusive, and engaging experience. We must acknowledge that education is fundamentally about people—their growth, relationships, and well-being, and not a matter-of-factly, impersonal necessity. As educators and institutions embrace this approach, they cultivate not only knowledgeable students, but also empathetic, resilient individuals prepared to thrive in a complex world.
In a time when technology is driving life and information is abundant, the human touch in learning must be coveted and remain irreplaceable.
The original idea pairing of “learning” & “development” in L&D still holds merit in that “learning” must not be seen in isolation, but always intimately tied to “development” and “growth”. And GROWTH is achieved only when organizations look at learning as not being transactional but based on establishing relationships. Humanizing learning is a vital step toward creating a more equitable and meaningful educational future for all.