Further training: AI is being used, but the skills are lacking
Swiss providers of continuing education use artificial intelligence (AI) primarily in marketing, communication and teaching and learning settings. However, according to a survey by the Swiss Association for Continuing Education SVEB, there is a lack of the necessary skills: Only 39 percent of institutions rate their employees as sufficiently qualified.
The use of AI is also becoming increasingly important in continuing education. An SVEB survey of 423 organizations shows that 32% are already using AI, 13% are planning to start, while a quarter are ruling it out in the near future.
AI is used particularly in marketing and communication as well as for the creation of learning materials. Frequently used tools such as ChatGPT or DeepL make everyday work easier. Two thirds of respondents expect AI to improve the quality of continuing education, especially in the individualization of teaching and learning opportunities.
Ethical challenges and competenciesgaps
Despite the positive expectations, 60 percent of providers see ethical risks such as data protection problems or the potential displacement of teachers.
However, the biggest hurdle remains the qualifications of staff: Only 39 percent of organizations rate the skills of their employees as sufficient. Nevertheless, 80 percent are open to AI. To close the gap, 44% of training providers already offer training courses ranging from basic knowledge to specialized applications.
The data of the SVEB provider survey were obtained from an online survey of continuing education providers in all three language regions between 30 April and 28 May 2024. The participants represent organizations of various sizes and orientations, from continuing vocational training to basic skills development.
