EI: Why AI isn’t taking on your job (still)
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the way learning experiences are built, delivered and expanded. Promises personalization at scale, immediate feedback and predictive insights. It can run in seconds that took me to take my team of learning designers for a few weeks (how long it took me to create an online course in 2025, and using the specific AI course creator I used in my workplace in 2012, I calculated the amount of time that made me excited and shocked me at the same time). Still, when we rush to optimize all our interactions, there is a real risk of designing for efficiency and forgetting humanity. Because this is the truth: AI can tell you what your learners have clicked. But I don’t know why they were freed or how they felt. Working across diverse cultures, from high-literacy environments like Japan to feedback avoidance markets like Indonesia, I learned that emotional intelligence (EI) is more than just a soft skill. It’s survival skills. And as AI is deeply implemented into online learning strategies, EI needs to remain a compass. Here’s how to get the right balance:
Let ai do what it’s best at…
1. Personalize your learning journey, but don’t overly complicated them
With AI, you can move away from all-purpose content. With appropriate data, the platform can recommend learning modules based on roles, proficiency, or behavioral patterns. It is important in APAC, and learners may face not only language barriers but also different learning norms. Personalized paths help learners build confidence and avoid overwhelming, especially when the platform is used in multiple countries and regions.
2. Automate repetitive tasks to unlock human abilities
AI is perfect for nudges, reminders and instant feedback. Let the chatbot handle “Where is my certificate?” Therefore, L&D teams can focus on designing culturally relevant learning interventions that can facilitate coaching conversations and generate basic knowledge of AI coaches. In the role of customer success, we often talk about “high-tech, high-five.” AI allows you to readjust that ratio with thoughtful readjustment.
3. Use predictive analytics to support early intervention
One of the most powerful aspects of AI in learning is its ability to flag patterns. Low engagement, skipped modules, or hesitation during evaluation. These signals help the L&D team act early before the learners give. This is especially important in cultures where seeking help may be considered a weakness. AI gives us a second eye, but we still need EI to know how to act based on what we see.
…But let humans do what only humans can do.
1. Train your team to interpret AI insights with emotional nuances
The dashboard may tell you that your learning campaigns are inadequate in Taiwan. But did it clash with the Chinese New Year? Did the tone of copying resonate culturally? When teams liked reflection, did the course need discussion? Understanding emotional tone, social context, and local norms transforms data into insights, something AI still can’t do on its own.
2. Build “human moments” into digital learning
Digital doesn’t have to mean dehumanizing. Combine AI-powered platforms with sync touchpoints: live Q&A, peer reflection sessions, or coaching circles. This hybrid approach builds psychological safety. This may not be easily found by learners of hierarchical or collectivist cultures in purely self-paced courses. In my experience, a simple sync group session can significantly increase your recruitment, even if the audience appears to be completely silent to you.
3. Prioritize emotional intelligence as a learning outcome
EI is not fluff. It is easy to teach, applied and increasingly important, especially for people’s managers. Teach leaders to recognize emotional triggers, give feedback through culture and retain space for vulnerability. AI may deliver content efficiently, but leaders shape the learning environment. Emotionally intelligent promotion creates or breaks the impact of the program.
Sweet Spot: ai + ei
The future of learning is not human and machine. It is someone with a machine that has been led by empathy. The more you automate, the more intentional you need to be about how they will be displayed to each other. We have seen how important it is to interpret what clients say, not just what they say, but what they don’t. I led a rollout where technology was perfect, but once I aligned the tone, timing and emotional context, engagement came on. That’s why emotional intelligence is more important than ever in this age of AI. No, I’m not worried that AI will replace us. We still dominate until we can handle silent virtual rooms in three languages, or until we can sense the discomfort behind the polite “yes” of our learners.
