Redefining HRD roles and practice in the machine learning revolution

Abstract

This chapter will seek to answer the question: to what extent do learning and development (LD) practitioners incorporate both the learning of humans and machines within their areas of responsibility? Initially, it considers some of the key ideas relating to the fourth industrial revolution with respect to human resource development (HRD)/LD. It reports the findings from a series of interviews with senior HRD practitioners which identified five themes (emerging awareness; responding; division between IT and HRD; the role of HRD; and ethical implications) that are shared and explored. This chapter suggests that machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) are still something of a black box for HRD/LD and this enquiry prompted speculation and possibilities with an emerging recognition of the need to be involved and develop a more collaborative response. It argues that HRD/LD can make this happen and is important to the continuity, relevance and survival of the profession.