Step into the world of Learning Technologies London 2024—a vibrant convergence of minds, ideas, and innovations that left attendees buzzing with excitement. As the premier exhibition and conference in the world for exploring the latest thinking and current trends in learning and development, LT 2024 did not disappoint. In fact, it exceeded all expectations, marking a momentous milestone as it celebrated 25 years since its inaugural show at Kensington Olympia in 1999.
But LT 2024 was more than just a commemoration of past achievements—it was a testament to the enduring spirit of collaboration, innovation, and progress that defines the learning and development community. As practitioners, commentators, and vendors converged from around the globe, there was an unmistakable sense of camaraderie in the air—a shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and shaping the future of learning.
In the bustling halls of the recent Learning Technologies event in London, it was impossible to miss the sea of new Artificial Intelligence (AI) offerings. As technology changes and AI becomes the latest buzz-worthy feature, it begs the question of what truly drives meaningful learning experiences. While the allure of technological innovation is undeniable, it’s crucial to remember that at the heart of learning lies the human element—the connections forged, the conversations shared, and the sense of belonging cultivated.
It’s a curious paradox: as attendees, we revel in the opportunity to meet friends, make new acquaintances, and engage in enriching conversations. We value the serendipity of stumbling upon new ideas, experimenting with novel approaches, and basking in the camaraderie of like-minded individuals. Yet, in our quest to enhance learning experiences, we often overlook the inherent value of these human interactions, assuming that technology can seamlessly replicate or even surpass them.
Totara’s own Lars Hyland attended Learning Technologies and recently shared his thoughts on this very topic on LinkedIn.
The topic de jour – Artificial Intelligence
The prevalence of AI at the event underscores the pervasive belief that technology holds the key to revolutionizing learning and development. While AI undoubtedly offers exciting possibilities, we mustn’t lose sight of the fundamental purpose of learning technology: to create impactful learning experiences for both people and businesses.
At Totara, we understand that the true measure of success lies not in the novelty of technology but in the demonstrable outcomes it enables. Our recent speaker session highlighted the importance of showcasing the effectiveness and return on investment (ROI) of L&D efforts—a mission that resonates deeply with our commitment to driving tangible results for our customers.
Admittedly, we stand at the dawn of a new era. The exponential pace of AI development ensures that what we witness today will be rendered obsolete in the blink of an eye. However, this dynamism shouldn’t blind us to the crucial considerations of long-term sustainability and productivity. Merely chasing after faster, cheaper solutions risks falling into the trap of Garbage In Garbage Out (GIGO), where the output reflects the quality of the input.
While AI may dazzle with its promise of endless possibilities, it’s imperative to remember that the essence of learning lies in the connections we forge, the conversations we share, and the impact we create. By focusing on proving the impact of L&D initiatives, whether through AI or traditional methods, we can drive organizational success, foster employee development, and stay ahead in an ever-evolving landscape.
Want to explore the topic of AI further?
Listen to the “Learning while working” podcast featuring Lars Hyland and Matt Linaker of Totara, titled “Rethinking workplace learning in an AI-Driven World.”
