JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas – Airmen looking to practice and prepare for one-on-one difficult conversations can now utilize scenario-based AI tools within DAF e-Learning.
The Conversation AI Simulator (CAISY) tools within DAF e-Learning use artificial intelligence to simulate the role of a subordinate, peer, or supervisor as Airmen practice for challenging workplace conversations.
“Important conversations are part of not only an individual’s career growth, but organizational success,” said Dr. Laura Barron, an industrial and organizational psychologist in Air Education and Training Command’s Force Development Foundations division. “The CAISY tools provide Airmen with a low-stakes way to practice, developing the skills they need before having to apply them to real-world conversations.”
At the end of each scenario (approximately 10 minutes), users will receive feedback on what they did well and areas for improvement. A range of custom and general simulations are available.
According to Barron, comments from recent DAF users have been positive, including:
- “Effective and valuable for teaching feedback, empathy, and skills that leaders can practice becoming better communicators, learn new intrapersonal skills, and be more rounded leaders.”
- “I am IMPRESSED. The AI’s interactions were realistic and appropriate for the setting. The basis of the scenario is exactly the situation our youngest leaders will be navigating.”
- “The AI responses were challenging enough that I had to employ distinct strategies to make progress. What I was most impressed with was the evaluations that pinpointed areas I could work on.”
Below are new custom scenarios available on DAF e-Learning:
- Empowering Leadership: Counseling with an Empathic Mindset
- Description: In this simulation, you assume the role of a newly promoted E-5 supervisor in the Air Force. Your task is to address the recent decline in performance of a former peer and classmate. Develop your leadership and interpersonal skills by navigating a sensitive conversation aimed at understanding concerns through empathetic listening and collaboratively finding solutions to help a new subordinate regain motivation and uphold Air Force standards.
- Advocacy in the Air Force
- Description: Consider this situation: one of your team members wasn't chosen for a speaking opportunity due to their accent. To navigate this conversation with your superior effectively, you'll need to utilize your empathy, advocacy, and communication skills to achieve an outcome that satisfies all parties involved. Demonstrating empathy and maintaining a balanced approach can help mitigate defensiveness among parties while championing the needs of your team members.
Sample of other simulations available: