UK workers face significant skills gap in AI training

Recent research has highlighted a significant gap in training for UK employees regarding the effective use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in the workplace. According to GoodHabitz, an online learning provider focusing on developing soft skills, one in five UK workers, approximately 6.31 million employees, have not received comprehensive training on how to effectively work with AI technologies. This revelation comes despite 70% of the workforce already integrating AI into their roles.

The study, carried out alongside Censuswide, indicates that over a third of employees feel they lack the essential soft and human-centric skills necessary to collaborate with AI systems effectively. Chris Chen, the Chief Technology Officer of GoodHabitz, noted the urgency, stating, “AI is changing everything about how we work and think, but most of our people aren’t ready for it.”

Ed Monk, the CEO of the Learning and Performance Institute, reinforced this concern, highlighting the risks posed to productivity and global competitiveness if the skills gap isn’t addressed. Monk emphasised the necessity for UK businesses to equip their workforce not only with AI proficiency but also with critical human skills like adaptability and complex problem-solving.

The research offers further insights into the shifting landscape of workforce skills, with almost half of the employees agreeing that AI has increased the demand for problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical capabilities. Additionally, 66% of the participants acknowledged that AI enables them to perform tasks they were previously unable to manage, showcasing the transformative capabilities of the technology.

The study also suggests that using AI could improve job satisfaction, as evidenced by 62% of respondents reporting increased enjoyment in their work. Employees have also noted that AI tools help them save, on average, 37 minutes per day, translating into over 150 hours annually per person.

While a majority, approximately 68% of employees, believe they possess some of the necessary skills to work with AI efficiently, significant gaps persist. 47% of the workforce still prefers relying on their skillsets rather than AI tools, pointing to a potential lack of confidence or trust in technology.

In response to the identified training needs, GoodHabitz is addressing the issue with its AI-enhanced learning platform, which utilises self-assessments to provide personalised course recommendations aimed at equipping employees with the necessary skills to thrive alongside AI technologies.

This comprehensive study conducted by Censuswide involved a sample of 2,014 employed individuals in the UK, gathered between 23rd and 29th August 2024. GoodHabitz operates in 22 international markets, serving over 3,000 clients and more than three million students globally, reinforcing its position in the educational technology sector.

Source: Noah Wire Services