Introduction to Virtual Reality Training
Imagine being transported to Mars as a robot avatar, working together together with your colleagues to beat challenges and escape the planet in an area pod. This is not a video game, but a team-building exercise using virtual reality (VR) technology. The exercise, named Apollo, is designed by a UK firm called Jenson8, which focuses on VR-based training platforms. The goal is to assist teams work together more effectively and construct stronger relationships.
How VR Training Works
In the Apollo exercise, each team gets three or 4 attempts to determine tips on how to escape Mars. Participants can experience the simulation from different perspectives, comparable to a leadership role, a regular robot, or an observer. After the exercise, the team discusses the dynamics that helped them succeed or fail. According to Bryan Barnes, head of research and development at Jenson8, the immersive experience helps people show up as themselves, moderately than playing a piece character. This can result in honest conversations and a greater understanding of every team member’s role.
The Benefits of VR Training
VR training is becoming increasingly popular, especially amongst younger employees who’re accustomed to the technology from playing immersive computer games. Mike Wynn, answerable for VR-based training at Bank of America, says that VR training is more practical since it provides information quickly and allows employees to see things moderately than simply reading about them. A study by PricewaterhouseCoopers found that staff learning via VR accomplish that 4 times faster than in a classroom and are 1.5 times more focused.
Advantages Over Traditional Training Methods
VR training has several benefits over traditional methods. It allows employees to practice and learn in a secure and controlled environment, which is especially necessary for high-risk jobs comparable to working on an oil rig or in a hospital emergency room. VR training can also be often cheaper and may provide feedback that’s more objective and honest than human feedback. Edwina Fitzmaurice, answerable for VR technology at Ernst & Young, says that VR training provides higher retention rates and higher engagement scores because employees can practice and learn at their very own pace.
Potential Drawbacks and Criticisms
While VR training has many advantages, it just isn’t without its drawbacks. Some users may find the experience of wearing VR goggles uncomfortable, or it might cause headaches or eyestrain. There can also be a necessity for more regulation within the industry to be sure that VR training is secure and effective. Ernst & Young’s Ms. Fitzmaurice agrees that finding the proper balance between governance and innovation is vital to the success of VR training.
Conclusion
VR training is a rapidly growing field that provides many advantages over traditional training methods. It provides a secure and controlled environment for workers to practice and learn, and it will probably be more practical and interesting than traditional methods. While there are some potential drawbacks and criticisms, some great benefits of VR training make it a pretty option for a lot of corporations. As the technology continues to evolve and improve, we will expect to see much more revolutionary and effective VR training programs in the longer term.
