D2L survey suggests U.S. workers eager to adopt AI want more structured support and flexible learning opportunities

D2L, an online learning platform, has shared the results of a new survey of U.S. workers that found those who are eager to adopt AI and grow their skills are looking for more support and flexible learning opportunities.

D2L surveyed just under 1,000 full-time salaried workers in the U.S. about their feelings around the use of AI and found that most (69 percent) believe the technology will help them do their jobs better. 

Three-quarters (75 percent) of employees say they want to supplement their skills to help their careers and 56 percent said they had been left to their own devices when it came to learning about AI.

Most employees (65 percent) were excited for AI to support them with repetitive tasks and 68 percent said they expect it will allow them to have more time for strategic and creative work.

A third of employees surveyed said they feared AI may eventually replace their job roles.

"As AI becomes more integrated into the way we work and learn, it's important that workers can feel empowered with the right tools and resources to help harness its potential," comments John Baker, President and CEO at D2L 

"The new research shows that employers can have an opportunity to help workers in their careers and develop  AI skills with a more flexible approach to upskilling that can be tailored to help suit their learning needs."

D2L’s report, called Upskill with Purpose, has called on employers to develop AI literacy programs to support employees while reinforcing human skills that AI cannot replace, such as critical thinking, communication, and emotional intelligence.

It also called for structured training during working hours to remove barriers to learning AI skills. 

RTIH AI in Retail Awards

Our sister title, RTIH, organiser of the industry leading RTIH Innovation Awards, proudly brings you the first edition of the RTIH AI in Retail Awards, which is now open for entries. 

As we witness a digital transformation revolution across all channels, AI tools are reshaping the omnichannel game, from personalising customer experiences to optimising inventory, uncovering insights into consumer behaviour, and enhancing the human element of retailers' businesses.

With 2025 set to be the year when AI and especially gen AI shake off the ‘heavily hyped’ tag and become embedded in retail business processes, our newly launched awards celebrate global technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world and the resulting benefits for retailers, shoppers and employees.

Our 2025 winners will be those companies who not only recognise the potential of AI, but also make it usable in everyday work - resulting in more efficiency and innovation in all areas.

Winners will be announced at an evening event at The Barbican in Central London on Wednesday, 3rd September.