New instructional designers usually have the technical skills they
need, like building courses, using tools, and applying learning
theories. But most programs don’t prepare them for the hardest part:
working with people. Deadlines might change, stakeholders might
disagree, and team tensions might rise. In those moments, technical
skills alone aren’t enough.
Dr. Sonja Irlbeck and Dr. Suzanne Dunn (2020) explain that
“Workplace emotional intelligence (EI) is becoming increasingly
important to employers… emotionally intelligent workers are able to more
successfully navigate within any organizational structure and culture.”
So how can students learn EI?
Performance Improvement provides a way: use real-life scenarios,
practice working together, give feedback, and track progress. It’s hard
to do this for every learner, and that’s where AI4PI helps.
First, we look at what learners need and if they’re ready. AI can
identify where students struggle through analyzing their reflections,
conversations, or team exercises, such as stress, conflict, or team
effort. Then, AI gives practical simulations. For example, one student
might respond to a “frustrated manager” email, while another works
through a virtual team conflict. AI suggests strategies, promotes
reflection, and tracks progress. Instructors still guide the process,
review feedback, correct mistakes, and make sure everything is fair.
The AI4PI Framework guides the instructional designers to ensure
every step stays focused on people, is safe, and can be measured. It
provides checks to protect sensitive data and avoid bias. The AI can
also track progress and check results. Students can see their growth as
it happens, and instructors can tell what’s working and where students
need more help.
The result is clear: EI training becomes practical, measurable,
and easy to scale. Students face real workplace challenges, instructors
learn what helps, and these skills carry over to the job. In the end,
instructional designers are not just technically skilled, they’re also
ready for the human side of work.
References
Irlbeck, S. & Dunn, S. (2020). Emotional Intelligence: a Missing Link in Preparing Instructional Design Students for Workplace Success. Performance Improvement. 59. https://www.doi.org/10.1002/pfi.21930.