In this episode, Megan and Meg explore the world of AI avatars in learning and development (L&D). With conference season in full swing, they muse on the fantasy of cloning oneself using AI, sparking a thoughtful exploration into what counts as an avatar and the different technology and types of interaction that avatars can provide. From eLearning guides to real-time, conversational AI personas, they discuss how one might be used in L&D. Megan shares the journey of creating her own real-time avatar (“AI Megan”) with CSI Sim—touching on tech stacks, content curation, and tricky details like hair and clothing!

Key Discussion Points:

• Not all AI avatars in L&D are the same.
• While it's challenging to make avatars effective, engaging, and purposeful, they also present great potential and opportunity.
• There are lots of real-world use cases for AI avatars including sales, healthcare, crisis training, and museums.
• It’s important to ensure new tech fulfills real needs, not just “whiz-bang” appeal.

Hosts: Meg Fairchild and Megan Torrance

Producers: Meg Fairchild, Jami Washington, and Dean Castile

Music: Original music by Dean Castile

Resources & Links From This Episode:

• The conversational simulated Megan in web browser form (with the old hair) - Unity WebGL Player | MeganTorrancev3
• AI Boyfriend Speed Dating Hackathon at ATD TK24
• Agatha Christie, who died in 1976, will see you in class - The New York Times
• As a leader and CEO, I’m committed to creating workplaces that respect and support everyone. | Megan Torrance posted on the topic | LinkedIn
• Tangents with TorranceLearning (LIVE!): Exploring AI Avatars | LinkedIn
• Meg Fairchild - TorranceLearning | LinkedIn
• Megan Torrance - TorranceLearning | LinkedIn
• NYT Article - Agatha Christie, Who Died in 1976, Will See You in Class
• csiSIM™

AI Transparency Statement: AI was used to generate the first draft of the show notes for this episode. It was then edited by real humans.