Is there a perfect alliance between technology and pedagogy?
It is a complex and promising marriage that deserves to be adjusted according to the educational objectives and the public concerned, however, immersive technologies such as virtual reality that allow users to experience simulated experiences in virtual environments have become promising tools in the field of vocational training.
It is essential to understand that virtual reality will not replace educators, trainers and other related professions, at VRAI Learning, we are convinced. On the contrary, for us, immersion tools complement, sustain and improve learning by offering new pedagogical opportunities and by staging the learning context that will boost the learner’s experience.
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Immersive learning: a revolution in training?
Tools such as virtual or augmented reality clearly offer revolutionary potential in terms of learning and skills development. Properly used, they will recreate real work situations in virtual environments, offering learners an immersive and realistic experience. This is particularly beneficial for areas where field practice is difficult to replicate, costly to replicate at ISO perimeter or dangerous depending on the universes exploited.
What about the understanding of pedagogy and the challenges of vocational training?
Understanding the pedagogy and objectives of the training is essential to take full advantage of an immersive training experience. Thanks to their knowledge of the field and issues, the trainers have the opportunity to integrate gamification into their course materials and to reproduce work environments where the learner can manipulate, test, fail while being guided. Thanks to storytelling and technique, they can imagine complete scenarios reproducing effective training courses. VR does not work on its own, without the knowledge and support of mentors, training will not be optimized.
Validation of prior learning 🙏
The objective of a training is to learn and improve skills, we often talk about certifications of acquired skills, whether they are durable or perishable (do you know the expiry date of your last certifications?!). One of the advantages of immersive learning is also the possibility of validating the acquired knowledge during the course, whether via hot or cold evalutions, Point systems or other... by being immersed in the test environment while allowing trainers to observe and evaluate learners' skills in conditions close to reality.
The role of teachers and trainers 👑
Teachers and trainers play an essential role in the supervision, guidance and motivation of learners. They have the experience and expertise to design learning programs tailored to the specific needs of learners, leveraging VR in a relevant way and at the right time!
We are convinced that these tools cannot replace transmission but enhance it and that trainers themselves must be supported in the integration of these new formats.
The human dimension of learning
Learning is not limited to the acquisition of knowledge and skills. It also encompasses the human dimension, social interaction and adaptation to individual needs. Education professionals are essential to support learners in their journey, answer their questions, encourage collaboration and foster a supportive and positive learning environment
The importance of personalization
VR combined with artificial intelligence offers opportunities for learning customization, but it cannot replace the ability of professionals to adapt to the individual needs of learners. They are able to provide personalized support, offer additional explanations, identify gaps and provide advice tailored to each learner.
In short, immersive training and all the associated tools are undeniably revolutionizing the world of training by offering innovative learning opportunities, however, it is crucial to emphasize that these tools will not replace professionals.
We keep in mind that VR is a powerful tool that complements and improves learning, but it cannot replace the added value provided by education professionals in the training ecosystem.
Any concrete examples?
📍 Medical Education: In medicine, VR is used to simulate surgical procedures. Medical students can practice complex procedures in a realistic virtual environment without risk to patients. This allows them to gain experience and develop their skills, reflexes before moving to real operations.
📍 Safety training: Workers in high-risk industries, such as the oil and gas industry, can benefit from RV training to deal with emergencies. They can be placed in virtual scenarios where they need to react quickly and make the right decisions to keep themselves and their colleagues safe.
📍 Language training: VR can be used to create immersive environments where learners can practice a foreign language in real-life contexts. For example, they can simulate communication situations in a foreign country, interact with virtual native speakers and develop their language skills in a more authentic way.
📍 Management and Leadership Training: VR can be used to simulate complex management scenarios where learners must make strategic decisions, solve problems and interact with virtual employees. This allows them to improve their leadership skills and develop their ability to manage teams in realistic virtual environments.
📍 Sales and customer service training: VR can be used to simulate interactions with customers in sales and customer service processes. Learners can practice their communication, negotiation and problem-solving skills by interacting with virtual clients, preparing them for real-life situations on the ground.
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