AI Advancements in Workplace Learning & Development
Program Description:
AI is rapidly changing not only how workplace learning is delivered, but what effective development can achieve. Drawing on empirical data from AI-supported leadership development programs across multiple organizations, this session examines what actually drives learner engagement, skill development, and organizational impact as well as what can cause initiatives to fall short.
Speaker: Zachary Van Rossum
We’ll explore how AI-powered simulations, personalized practice, feedback, and assessment are creating new opportunities for scalable, experiential learning. We’ll also examine why AI technology alone is not enough. Program structure, cadence, facilitation, and organizational context often shape outcomes as much as the technology itself.
Participants will leave with evidence-based principles for designing effective AI-assisted learning programs, practical lessons from real-world implementation, and an understanding of the capabilities organizations should be developing as AI reshapes work and leadership.
This talk is part of "Learn. Connect. Lead." — a speaker series hosted by the Adult Learning and Leadership Program at Teachers College, Columbia University, bringing together learning innovators and thought leaders to explore how people grow, lead, and adapt in a rapidly changing world. Each session offers fresh insights, meaningful connection, and practical ideas for leading with purpose and impact.
Dates & Registration
Date: November 9, 2026
Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Format: In-person
Location: Teachers College, Columbia University
Price: $15.00
Questions: Email tcacademy@tc.columbia.edu
Speaker
Zachary Van Rossum, EdD, is an expert in the psychology of learning and development, with a specialty in psychometrics, leadership decision-making, facilitation, and coaching. As Chief Research Officer & Co-Founder of Simsoal.ai he builds innovative assessments and experiential learning simulations that accelerate leadership development. Zachary is also a professor at Teachers College, Columbia University, where he teaches graduate level courses in adult learning, leadership, coaching and self-development. He is also co-author of the book “The Five Conversations that Change Everything: How to Recognize, Prepare For, and Master the Pivotal Moments That Define Your Success.”
What You’ll Learn
- Identify what drives engagement in AI-assisted learning.
- Understand factors that influence learner outcomes.
- Recognize common challenges in AI-enabled program design.
- Anticipate emerging priorities for workplace learning and development.
"Learn. Connect. Lead." — Rethinking Learning for Complexity
What does it take to lead in a world that won't stop changing?
Join us for an engaging series of conversations with learning innovators, and thought leaders who are answering that question every day. The Speaker series, hosted by the Adult Learning and Leadership Program at Teachers College, Columbia University, connects you with bold thinkers tackling some of the topical and challenging ideas that matter most — How do people learn in the flow of work? How do they effectively cross boundaries and find ideas at the edges of interaction with clients? How can we work with, and also reshape, the learning culture? How do AI and new technologies enhance and transform work and learning?
Whether you're leading a team, navigating organizational change, or sharpening your edge for what's next, this series meets you where you are — and challenges you to go further. Connect with a powerful community of TC alumni and fellow professionals who share your drive to lead with purpose, curiosity, and impact.
Reserve your spot for the next session and join a community that never stops learning. This isn't your typical lecture series. It's a dynamic and safe space for curious minds, seasoned professionals, and emerging leaders who are ready to think differently, challenge assumptions, and grow together. Every session is an opportunity to gain fresh insights, expand your network, and walk away inspired to lead with greater clarity and purpose.
Don't just follow the conversation — be part of it.
Seats are limited. Reserve yours today.