Is Virtual Reality Learning the Future of Corporate Training and Collaboration?

Analyzing the impact of learning effectiveness through virtual reality meetings and trainings.

Photo Source: Inglobe Technologies

The corporate world has dipped into the metaverse with vocational training and virtual meetings, providing new ways to increase learning and retention.

Not only does the metaverse improve learning effectiveness, but it creates a more engaged work environment. According to Fast Company, 47 percent of people leave their jobs as a result of poor communication and company culture.

What are the benefits of virtual learning?

Virtual learning provides a space for workers to meet, train, work on projects and make mistakes while learning. Additionally, it allows workers to connect from across the globe in a more interactive format than a Zoom call. 

According to PWC, virtual reality learners are four times faster to train than in a classroom, 275 percent more confident to apply skills after training and four times more focused than e-learning peers.

Beyond learning effectiveness, it is safer for certain occupations to train in a low-risk virtual setting, where they are able to make a mistake and try again. For example, a surgeon can practice procedures multiple times virtually. A construction worker or machine operator can become more familiar with their tools and a dangerous work environment. Virtual learning allows practice in fields where there is a small margin for human error.

Where else can virtual learning be used?

Education is another area with virtual learning experimentation. A study was done on 160 students who were divided into two groups. One group used virtual laboratory simulations and the other group used traditional learning methods. After a test given to students in both groups, it was determined that there was a 76 percent increase in learning effectiveness when using virtual laboratories. They took the study even further to prove a 101 percent increase in learning effectiveness when virtual laboratories were combined with real teachers. Could this be the start of a new learning process in classrooms?

Where are virtual trainings and meetings being implemented?

The corporate world has already started implementing virtual training and meetings, most notably with Microsoft Mesh. This new Microsoft feature lets people share collaborative holographic experiences from different locations. The feature has been combined with Microsoft Teams, which is used for virtual meetings, chats and shared documents. Mesh for Teams was created to give remote workers a better way to connect and interact. Now, workers can use their avatars to mingle and collaborate.

Many companies use VR as a form of training as well. Walmart trains customer service associates with VR headsets. FedEx uses VR to train employees on work in the warehouse. Porsche uses VR to train technicians. Possibilities to train and learn in VR are close to endless.

As we’ve discussed in recent articles, the metaverse, AR and VR require a need to be used in order to succeed. Virtual training and learning provides a purpose for the metaverse, and we expect to see more of it in the coming years.

Let’s Ask ChatGPT

Q: What do you think about corporate and vocational training in the metaverse?

A: Corporate and vocational training in the metaverse could potentially offer a number of benefits, such as increased engagement and immersiveness, as well as the ability to create realistic simulations for hands-on training. However, it is important to note that the metaverse is still a relatively new technology, and it is not yet clear how well it will be adopted for training purposes. Additionally, it will be important to ensure that the necessary infrastructure and support is in place for effective training in the metaverse.

Q: Does virtual learning increase learning effectiveness?

A: Virtual learning, including learning in a metaverse, has the potential to increase learning effectiveness in certain cases. Some research suggests that virtual learning environments can be as effective, if not more effective, than traditional in-person instruction for certain types of tasks and skills, such as those that involve simulations or interactive elements. Additionally, virtual learning can offer increased flexibility and accessibility, allowing learners to access training materials and resources from anywhere and at any time.

However, it's important to note that virtual learning is not a one-size-fits-all solution and it may not be as effective as traditional face-to-face learning for certain types of content or learning objectives. Therefore, it's crucial to evaluate the suitability of virtual learning for a specific training program and match the teaching method with the learning objectives and the type of learners.

Best,

Ariana for the Don’t Count Us Out Yet Team

For Further Information: