Impact of VR in Employee Training & Development - Blog 04

 What is VR?

Virtual Reality is a technology that creates an artificial computer generated environment for the users and do their tasks in real time. VR provides an interactive experience to the users to visualize and understand complex situations and concepts and explore virtual worlds. It can be used to connect entire worlds, as it is the case in the Metaverse.

The History of VR 

In the 1960s, computer scientist Ivan Sutherland developed a prototype head mounted display (HMD) capable of showing simple wireframe graphics. Since then, virtual reality technology has progressed considerably, resulting in the creation of more advanced HMDs, motion tracking systems, and haptic feedback devices.

Today, there are a variety of terms used to describe the generation of digital environments-

 Augmented Reality (AR)

 Virtual Reality (VR)

 and mixed reality.

 Virtual reality (VR) functions by recreating an immersive 3D environment through a combination of techniques. The essence of VR technology lies in an integrated system that substitutes the physical environment with a convincingly realistic  simulation. This simulation is closely aligned with the actual world, aiming to adapt the digital environment to reflect the real world as accurately as possible.

The typical hardware setup consists of a headset or display, motion controllers, and sensors that monitor the user's movements and gestures in real time.

The software is responsible for constructing a digital environment through computer generated graphics, audio, and other sensory inputs to create a fully immersive experience.

 One of the key benefits of virtual reality is its capability to generate immersive experiences that facilitate learning, practice, and exploration within a safe and controlled setting. Virtual reality enables meetings, training sessions, or conferences to take place in virtual spaces, thereby eliminating the necessity for travel to physical locations.

Additionally, virtual reality allows for the customization of virtual experiences, with haptic feedback and audio elements playing a crucial role in this process. Ultimately, VR aims to create personalized user experiences tailored to individual preferences. 

            

Improvement of T&D

In the past, training methods primarily depended on apprenticeships and direct mentorship from experienced individuals to guide newcomers. The focus shifted toward more structured training approaches, highlighted by the development of instructional design models such as ADDIE (Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, Evaluate).

With the advancement of technology, particularly through the introduction of computers, computer-based training and e-learning began to take shape. 

Online education, e-learning initiatives, and virtual training platforms have become increasingly popular. 

Mobile learning and microlearning present flexible and easily accessible training alternatives. 

Artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) are now employed to create immersive and engaging training experiences. 

VR in Training and Development  

Virtual reality (VR) is quickly changing the base of training and development across diverse sectors. Its capacity to create immersive, interactive, and secure learning environments provides significant benefits compared to conventional training methods. Here’s a summary of how VR is beneficial, along with real-world illustrations.

Improved Engagement and Retention- 

The immersive characteristics of VR capture learners' focus, resulting in heightened engagement and better knowledge retention. Research shows that VR training can substantially improve memory recall over traditional methods. 

Safe and Realistic Environment Simulations- 

VR enables the assessment of high-risk situations without endangering trainees, which is vital for fields like healthcare, construction, and manufacturing. 

Cost Efficiency- 

Although the upfront costs for VR technology can be substantial, minimizing expenses related to physical training materials, travel, and on-site instruction may lead to long-term savings. 

Personalized Education- 

VR can tailor experiences to individual learning preferences and deliver customized feedback, allowing learners to advance at their own pace. 

Insightful Data- 

VR systems can monitor trainee performance, yielding valuable data that can enhance training programs.   

 

Future Developments of VR on T&D   

AI Enhanced Learning

Artificial intelligence will increasingly contribute to personalizing educational experiences and delivering intelligent feedback. 

AI-driven learning platforms will adapt to unique learning styles and offer tailored suggestions. 

Virtual and Augmented Reality Training

Virtual reality and augmented reality will be more commonly used for immersive and practical training opportunities. 

These technologies will be especially beneficial for training in intricate or hazardous workplaces.

Real-World Examples of Using VR  

 Healthcare- 

VR technology is applied to train surgeons in complex surgical procedures, providing realistic practice opportunities in a virtual setting. 

Healthcare practitioners utilize VR to replicate patient interactions, enhancing their communication and diagnostic abilities. 

Manufacturing- 

Companies employ VR to train workers on how to operate heavy machinery and handle complicated assembly tasks. 

VR simulations assist employees in learning safety protocols and emergency procedures. 

Retail- 

Walmart employs VR to educate staff on a variety of responsibilities, including customer service and the use of new in-store technologies, resulting in a significant reduction in training duration and improved employee proficiency. 

Aviation- 

Flight simulators have long been foundational in pilot training, and VR is enhancing this with a more immersive and realistic experience.  

 

Virtual Training is an important and immersive tool for training and development which can keep organization on track.

References

Sutherland, I. E. (1965). The ultimate display. Proceedings of IFIP Congress 65, 2, 506–508.

Radianti, J., Majchrzak, A., Fromm, J., & Wohlgenannt, I. (2020). A systematic review of immersive virtual reality applications for higher education: Design elements, lessons learned, and research agenda. Computers & Education, 147, 103778.  

Merchant, Z., Goetz, E. T., Cifuentes, L., Keeney-Kennicutt, T., & Davis, T. J. (2014). Effectiveness of virtual reality-based instruction on students' learning outcomes in science: A meta-analysis. Journal of Educational Technology & Society, 17(1), 29-41.

Parong, J., & Mayer, R. E. (2021). Learning science in virtual reality. Journal of Educational Psychology, 113(1), 204.

Riva, G., Baños, R. M., Botella, C., Mantovani, G., & Gaggioli, A. (2016). Transforming experiential knowledge through augmented reality. Frontiers in Psychology, 7, 815.

Walmart. (2018). Walmart is using virtual reality to train its employees. [Press release]. Retrieved from their corporate website.

Craig, A. B. (2013). Understanding augmented reality: concepts and applications. Morgan Kaufmann.

Freina, L., & Ott, M. (2015). A literature review on immersive virtual reality in education: state of the art and perspectives. In Proceedings of the 11th international conference on virtual learning (ICVL) (pp. 216-228).