Training Workers to Thrive in Future Technology-Driven Environments: A Blueprint

Abstract

The rapid development in machine learning and artificial intelligence will inevitably make most workplaces into technology-driven environments where workers will be forced to use and rely on various technologies. In this paper, we outline two major challenges a non-tech savvy worker will face in such future work environments. The first challenge is the fear for technology, which is often termed as “technostress.” The second is the lack of leadership skills. While the first challenge has been well-recognized, few industry sectors have recognized the need to offer leadership training for all its workforce. In future, the works will inevitably be more sophisticated and they will require the workers to have the skills to handle unexpected situations, especially on tasks related to working with customers because simple and repetitive tasks will have been automated by machines. To overcome these issues, we propose to provide individualized training for workers using carefully designed educational modules that are themselves backed by artificial intelligence. Essentially, artificial intelligence would be put to use to study patterns of human behaviors and identify the most effective ways to intervene that could alter human behavior for better.