Many learning and development (L&D) leaders worry that artificial intelligence (AI)-generated digital avatars and synthetic voices feel disconnected or distracting, negatively impacting how well employees learn. TechSmith studied more than 700 learners to compare AI voices and avatars against human presenters. In this session, we’ll share what the data shows about when these formats help learning, and when they fall short. From audio-only narration to full-screen and picture-in-picture avatars, you’ll see which formats support learning best and where human presence still matters.

TechSmith research manager, Dave McCollom[DM1.1], and senior market research analyst, Stephanie Warnhoff, lead this session, drawing on original learner research and direct analysis of how AI voices and avatars affect training outcomes. Attendees will see where production efficiency creates real value, where learner preference and credibility still shape results and how to make better decisions about when to use AI versus a human presence in learning content.

Attendees will learn:

• How to evaluate when an AI voice is effective for training and considerations to keep in mind, such as audio quality, learner preference and retention outcomes
• How to choose the right digital presenter format for the content, including when full-screen avatars increase engagement and when picture-in-picture better supports procedural learning
• Where a human presenter still matters, based on learner expectations and perceived credibility

View full agenda.

Speakers

Dave McCollom, Research Manager, TechSmith Dave McCollom has spent the last 20 years at TechSmith exploring how people learn and how technology can make that easier. He’s worked in research, customer evangelism, customer success and product management, always chasing the sweet spot where real customer needs meet smart tools. He holds a BA in Business and an MA in Educational Technology from Michigan State University. Dave lives in East Lansing, MI with his wife, Nikky, and their sons, Will and Jake. Outside of work, you can usually find him building epic blanket forts with his kids or in his workshop covered in sawdust.

Stephanie Warnhoff, Senior Market Research Analyst, TechSmith Stephanie Warnhoff is a senior market research analyst at TechSmith, where she has spent more than 15 years digging into what customers need, why they make decisions and how to turn those insights into better products and experiences. Stephanie leads research across surveys, interviews, focus groups and secondary sources, partnering closely with teams in marketing, UX and product management to guide strategy with clear, actionable data.