A recent survey unveils significant challenges faced by UK employees in adopting AI, despite a strong desire to learn.
- 74% of respondents report concerns about their ability to use AI effectively at work.
- Many workers feel overwhelmed and anxious due to insufficient training and experience.
- Employer support for AI training is inadequate, leaving many employees feeling underprepared.
- Interactive and peer-assisted learning could bridge the existing AI skills gap.
The UK workforce is currently experiencing a crisis of confidence regarding the integration of AI in work environments. According to a survey conducted by AI training provider AI Quest, a staggering 74% of respondents reported concerns about their ability to utilize AI tools effectively at their workplace. The primary issues cited included a lack of sufficient experience, feelings of overwhelm, and anxiety about new technologies.
Further complicating this issue, the survey disclosed that 75% of the 2,000 workers polled admitted they do not fully understand how to apply AI in their daily roles. These findings resonate with the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023, which anticipates significant shifts in job skills over the next few years. The necessity for upskilling and reskilling thus becomes apparent, as 44% of job skills are expected to change within five years, with 25% of jobs transforming in just two years.
Jonny Phillips, MD at Strive Training, stresses the urgency of tackling these challenges, noting that AI’s growing role in the future of work underscores the need for immediate workforce upskilling. It is crucial, he argues, for employees to be well-equipped to meet the demands of future job markets. Continued investment in workforce skills is essential to ensure that employees can thrive as roles evolve.
Despite the pressing need for AI proficiency, the current level of support from employers remains lacking. A concerning 40% of workers have not received any AI training, while those who have often find it insufficient, with 23% reporting it as below expectations and 17% deeming it too basic.
Employees express a clear desire for more engaging and practical training options. 60% of survey participants indicated a preference for hands-on training or instructions focusing on real-world AI applications. There is also an interest in incentivized or gamified learning experiences, with 17% of employees advocating for such approaches to enhance their understanding of AI tools.
Peer learning offers an additional opportunity to close the AI skills gap. Approximately 24% of employees felt motivated to improve their AI skills by observing their peers. However, 13% reported feelings of intimidation due to the high proficiency standards set by their colleagues.
In response to these findings, Strive Training has launched ‘AI Quest’, a new initiative aimed at providing a more interactive and immersive AI learning experience. This program is designed to accommodate employees at all levels through in-person training sessions, concentrating on practical application and boosting confidence.
The need for effective AI training is undeniable as UK employees navigate the evolving landscape of technology in the workplace.
