Is AI driving classroom-based learning into the abyss? On the contrary, it raises its added value, says Zdeňka Filipová

It has been eight months since you took over the management of the VOX educational company. Can you summarise what you focused on within the established educational company?

Yes, you could say that the protective period is over. It was a very intense but inspiring time. The topic of education is something that connects my work at VOX with my previous work at Charles University – but otherwise I found myself in a completely new environment that is taking me in a different direction. The academic environment relies on an apparatus that guarantees it a certain stability. Commercial education is a much wilder environment. The market is unforgiving, and those who fail to keep pace with its dynamic development quickly lose their competitive edge.

And to be specific, the past year has been spent fighting on two fronts. On the invisible, internal front, it was necessary to simplify some processes within the company so that we could respond better to ever-changing trends in education. We also focused on integrating processes with our new owner, the Grant Thornton group. On the external front, we managed to prepare new modern classrooms in Pankrác, Prague, improve our website, establish a publishing house and update our product range. Ti put it shortly, we have not been idle.

What key priorities did you set when you took office?

I wanted to further profile VOX as a partner that not only trains, but really helps develop individuals and entire teams. My priority is the quality of the content, the quality of lecturers and the ability to respond quickly to changes in the labour market and the changing needs of our customers. We are working on better integration of hybrid learning formats, i.e. a combination of face-to-face and online learning, and on greater clarity and simplicity for course participants. In the future, we are also planning thematic training series and a development academy for corporate clients. I am building on my experience in academia and this is the direction some of our new products will take.

What current trends are influencing education (of both individuals and companies) in the Czech Republic the most?

Definitely digitisation, pressure for flexibility, but also an emphasis on the measurability of educational outcomes. There is much more talk than before about “upskilling” and “reskilling”, i.e. the constant updating and transformation of competences. Shorter and targeted forms of training culminating in official certification – such as micro-certificates or short accredited programmes – are also becoming increasingly popular. These formats, which respond to specific labour market needs, are gradually complementing or partially replacing traditional, long-term study programmes. There is a growing interest in developing soft skills and leadership – in other words, things that cannot simply be learned from a book.

Are the expectations that companies have of training companies changing?

No doubt. Today, companies are looking for a comprehensive partner who will not only provide training but also help identify training needs, set up a development plan and measure impact. It is also essential to be able to offer training in multiple formats – in person, online and hybrid – depending on the specific situation.

Is the entire segment shifting towards individualisation and digitalisation, or does traditional classroom training still have a strong position?

All of these trends are developing simultaneously. Classroom training still has great value, especially where experience, exchange of knowledge and interactivity are important. The online form is great for fast and efficient transfer of information, for example in legislation. Individualisation is playing an increasingly important role – people want training that matches their exact needs and level.

From your point of view, what is the impact of the rapid emergence of artificial intelligence on education?

I definitely see AI as an opportunity. It is a tool that can streamline preparation, materials and subsequent repetition of the curriculum. But personal contact, sharing experiences, discussion and the role of the tutor as a guide – this is something that AI cannot replace. It is important to learn how to work with AI, but responsibility for real learning cannot be transferred to it.

How do you specifically react to the advent of AI at VOX? Do you incorporate artificial intelligence into your courses and programmes, and if so, how?

AI appears as a separate topic in our courses – we teach how to work with it, how to use it in practice. At the same time, we are gradually integrating it into the preparation of study materials and communication with clients. But always with the emphasis that it is a tool – not a substitute for experience, intuition and critical thinking.

Do you think there is a risk that AI will reduce interest in face-to-face training?

I don’t think so – the personal touch is gaining in value. At a time when we can get most of our information online or through AI, there is a growing need for human contact, sharing, discussion. Face-to-face training has an indispensable role to play where deeper understanding, interaction and inspiration are at stake.

What else besides AI do you think could have a major impact on the education sector in the coming years?

I have already mentioned that short-term educational formats with official outcomes are on the rise. I feel that more and more people and companies are focusing on training that is not just about acquiring information, but mainly about how to put it into practice. And this applies to soft skills as well as to specialist areas such as accounting, tax or legislation. The pace of modern life is relentless, and the pressure to streamline processes is increasing, leading to a shift away from traditional forms of education based on the teaching of theory. Participants want specific examples, practical recommendations and the opportunity to try things out or ask questions about their own situations. Clarity is also important – even complex topics should be presented in a clear and understandable way. There is growing demand for tailor-made training courses that precisely match the needs of a specific company or job position. Last but not least, it is crucial that people can choose the form of teaching that suits them best – whether in person, online or a combination of both. I also believe, and we are already seeing this today, that there will be a growing emphasis on well-being, mental resilience and the ability to manage one’s own energy – especially in response to the accelerating pace of change, high demands for adaptability and the increasing incidence of stress and burnout.