Opening Note from Sandy
Welcome to Signals in Learning. As a long-time Learning and Development (L&D) practitioner, I’m excited to share insights from my more than twenty-year career along with fresh perspectives, ideas and innovations shaping modern learning. These lessons come from conversations with hundreds of L&D colleagues and are intended to help you expand your own corporate learning strategies.
At D2L, our mission is to help organizations deliver dynamic learning programs through our learning platform. With 25+ years of experience, our customers turn to us to elevate learning as a core priority in their tech stack, and to help build a better story around it.
This newsletter is designed to equip you with the insights and resources to do just that. This month, I’m diving into how to use artificial intelligence (AI) in your organization’s learning strategy.
The Ten Best Uses of AI in Creating a Modern Learning Strategy
As an L&D executive, I’ve seen firsthand how AI is fundamentally reshaping the way organizations develop talent. What was once a static, one-size-fits-all approach to training has evolved into something far more personalized, dynamic and data-driven.
AI is not a silver bullet, but when used strategically, it can unlock enormous value. From enhancing learning experiences to accelerating workforce planning, here are the ten most impactful ways AI can support a modern learning and talent development strategy.
First, AI enables personalized learning at scale. Algorithms can analyze employee roles, skill profiles, performance data and learning preferences to recommend training paths that are both relevant and engaging, dramatically improving the employee experience.
When D2L launched an AI-powered learning experience platform internally, engagement rose by more than 40% in just six months. As Satya Nadella, CEO at Microsoft has said, “AI will empower every person and every organization to do more.” In L&D, that empowerment starts with relevance.
Second, AI can identify skill gaps in real time. By integrating data from HR systems, performance reviews and business outcomes, AI can help uncover which competencies are missing across teams or geographies. This insight allows learning leaders to target programs with precision and anticipate future needs.
Third, content curation has become exponentially more efficient. Instead of manually sifting through thousands of learning resources, AI tools automatically surface the most relevant and high-quality materials from both internal and external libraries. This saves time and ensures learners always have access to current content.
Fourth, we’re using AI to create intelligent coaching experiences. Virtual coaching assistants provide feedback, offer guidance, simulate conversations and even help employees practice soft skills like leadership or communication. While these tools don’t replace human coaches, they make development support far more accessible.
Fifth, talent mobility is being transformed by AI. We can now match employees to internal opportunities, projects and mentorships based on their skills, interests and goals. This not only accelerates development, but it also improves retention.
As my former colleague, the CHRO at a global financial services organization, noted, “AI is helping us democratize access to learning and opportunity.” I couldn’t agree more.
Sixth, AI is enhancing performance support through just-in-time learning. By integrating AI into the flow of work, employees receive tips, nudges or microlearning modules exactly when they need them. This reduces reliance on scheduled training and strengthens knowledge retention.
Seventh, natural language processing has opened new possibilities in learning content creation. We’re now using generative AI to create scenario-based learning, assessment questions and even role-specific onboarding programs, in a fraction of the time it used to take.
Eighth, AI is revolutionizing learning analytics. Instead of simply measuring completions or time spent, we can now assess knowledge transfer, engagement quality and long-term impact on business performance. This shift allows learning teams to move beyond reporting activity and start demonstrating value.
Ninth, AI is helping us improve diversity and inclusion in learning. Recommendation engines are being fine-tuned to eliminate bias, and talent insights are helping spot where certain groups may lack access to development opportunities. When used responsibly, AI can be a powerful equalizer.
Tenth, AI is streamlining L&D operations. From automating training logistics to managing compliance workflows, it’s freeing up teamso focus more on strategy and less on administration.
Of course, adopting AI isn’t without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is data quality. If our underlying HR data is incomplete or outdated, AI-driven decisions won’t be accurate. We also need to address employee concerns about surveillance or job replacement and maintain transparency in how AI is used. Ethical AI use is not just good practice—it’s essential to building trust.
For AI to succeed in learning and development, three things need to be true:
- There must be strong collaboration between L&D, IT and data teams.
- Leadership must support experimentation and invest in both the technology and the skills needed to use it.
- We must stay focused on the human experience—AI should amplify people, not replace them.
The future of talent development is here, and AI is already playing a central role. The organizations that will thrive are those that embrace these tools thoughtfully and boldly, always keeping learners at the center.
Check out D2L Lumi
Our suite of built-in generative AI tools that accelerate content creation while also enhancing instructional quality
Content Spotlight
We’ve been busy building new resources to support L&D professionals in their roles. Check out these tools to help your organization grow and stay ahead:
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Learning Platform
Navigate the rapidly evolving L&D tech landscape with this comprehensive guide. From key features to consider to adoption tips, this resource helps you make informed decisions for your team.
D2L Awarded Gold
We’re proud to share that D2L was recently awarded the Chief Learning Officer – Learning in Practice Awards for Excellence in eLearning!
Event Highlights
Next week, we’re heading down to Las Vegas for DevLearn, where I’ll be presenting the Five Steps to Transforming a Learning Culture. Be sure to stop by Booth #123 if you’re attending—I’d love to say hi!
Thanks for reading Signals in Learning. Each monthly edition promises actionable insights, takeaways and practical lessons to inspire your L&D initiatives, helping you make learning more engaging and impactful every day.
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