Virtual Reality (VR) has emerged as a rapidly growing training tool, with companies across sectors finding ways to integrate it into their learning and development pipeline. But before fully embracing VR, you should ask yourself if it is suitable for your training needs. Let's delve into some key principles to consider when integrating VR into your training program and focus on the kinds of skills it may be particularly well-suited to help develop.
Practice makes perfect
VR's strength lies in enabling learners to practice skills that are challenging to replicate in other contexts. High-stress situations like aviation or emergency response, technical environments involving dangerous machinery or hazardous materials, and even emotionally demanding workplace conversations requiring empathy—all can be effectively simulated in VR. It provides a safe yet realistic platform for honing critical skills and procedures. And it can provide the kind of immediate feedback that lets people get up to speed rapidly.
Soft skills in action
Skills like empathy, communication, and leadership are critical in the workplace. VR offers an opportunity to immerse learners in simulations where they can develop and practice those skills. Scenarios ranging from sensitive customer interactions to understanding diverse perspectives in team settings, from active listening exercises to communicating constructive feedback, or from making strategic decisions to inspiring teams can all be modeled and practiced. One of the biggest benefits of this approach is that practice can be repeated, and different strategies and approaches can be tested out. There isn’t really a one-size fits all approach to these skills, and training that allows for that flexibility is going to be more effective than something that forces people to choose from preselected multiple choice options.
Aim for transferability
A common pitfall of traditional training methods is the limited application of learned skills outside the training environment. The ultimate goal of any training is to foster the transfer of skills to real-world contexts. The best way to do this is by letting learners practice applying their skills to diverse scenarios across different settings. Success in transferring knowledge to new practice situations is a strong indicator of effective training.
Data-driven insights
VR training can go beyond traditional assessment methods, providing valuable data on learners' skill development. Through performance-based evaluations and behavioral analytics, organizations can gain deep insights into learners' progress, strengths, and areas for improvement. This data-driven approach allows for targeted and personalized training interventions. Look for systems that can provide granular measures of performance on subskills and provide detailed feedback.
Similar outcomes, different tools
While VR is a powerful training tool, consider whether it genuinely adds value over other approaches. Certain scenario-based learning methods, utilizing varying levels of technology, can achieve similar learning outcomes. For instance, a VR simulation for communication skills training could be emulated using a computer and a microphone. Assess whether the VR component significantly enhances the learning experience before opting for its integration.
VR training can be a transformative addition to your learning initiatives if applied thoughtfully and strategically. If you are exploring VR for your training needs, remember to focus on its strengths in creating realistic practice opportunities, encouraging transferability of skills, and providing more fine-grained data for assessment. This can lead to better-informed decisions about its implementation.
