Using AI for role plays with Andrea Laus

In this episode of the Learning While Working Podcast, Andrea Laus explores the importance of role plays for developing crucial human skills, the potential pitfalls in traditional role play designs, and the transformative impact of a digital approach to role plays guided by technology. Andrea als unpacks how AI can enhance role plays, improve the feedback process, and ultimately revolutionise the L&D landscape.

About Andrea Laus

Andrea Laus has spent the last 20 years developing effective strategies for talent development. He is the CEO of SkillGym, which designs state-of-the-art digital role plays for rebalancing knowledge-based training approaches with actionable practice. He regularly shares his ideas about effective training methodologies and strategies through his blog, and speaks at several HR and L&D conferences around the world on these fascinating subjects. 

Key takeaways:

• The importance of role plays in learning experiences: Andrea shares how it's crucial for developing human skills such as communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. It also creates a safe environment for practising real-life scenarios
• On the challenges and misconceptions about role plays: Learners often feel judged and uncomfortable during role plays. There is a common misconception too that soft skills are “soft” – in reality they require dedicated effort and practice. It helps to understand these barriers so you can create the best learning environment.
• The application of technology and AI: Andrea highlights that, when used thoughtfully, technology can have a very positive impact. AI can help generate dialogues and responses, standardised and effective feedback, and it can assist in tracking and analysing learner actions. However, it is vital to select the right technology for specific learning objectives. 

Segmented time stamps:

(00:00) Introduction

(04:05) Handling the feeling of judgement in role plays

(07:06) Leveraging role plays for sense making in learning

(12:15) Practice with digital standardised and accelerates improvement

(17:50) Supervise generative AI for writing dialogues

(23:39) Measure and improve with technology-driven feedback

(26:37) Utilise strategies, trust the process, embrace technology

Links from the podcast

• Connect with Andrea Laus on LinkedIn
• Check out SkillGym
• Watch the recording of the Upskilling Using Artificial Intelligence: AI Digital Role Play webinar