3D
Andrew Jinman explores the potential of simulation in corporate training and wonders how this exciting learning technology will evolve.
The art of simulation U
sing technology to create training simulations is not a new thing. As far back at 1929, Edward Link, an organ-maker from New York, created a flight simulator as a safe way to train aircrew. During the next 20 years, thousands of pilots were trained on Link simulators which consisted of a mock-cockpit surrounded by painted scenery. Efforts to recreate a realistic training environment for pilots took a huge leap
with the dawn of computing, and during the latter part of the twentieth century simulations became ever more sophisticated. You could even play your own version at home in the form of the much-loved Microsoft Flight Simulator game! Today, flight training remains at the forefront of simulation with 3D, motion-based systems creating an unparalleled experience. Flight training may be the poster boy of simulation, but 3D immersive learning experiences are now starting to appear in mainstream corporate training. We recently created a 3D simulation for luxury car company Lexus as part of staff product training for the new RC F model (see below). Visually, 3D simulations can be attractive and impressive, but looks are not enough. What can simulation deliver beyond this?
Practical benefits Simulation is a ‘power tool’ for learning. It can overcome practical barriers, create a unique experience for learners and help foster a deeper sense of understanding. But what’s going on in a 3D learning simulation?
n Sensory immersion Realistic graphics might be what first springs to mind when thinking about simulation, but to create a feeling of immersion the experience needs to be deeper. Other senses should be engaged as much as possible, and clever use of audio and sound effects can really heighten the involvement. A strong, compelling narrative plays a crucial role, but it must be both believable and relevant to the learner’s job. Simulation-based learning is highly interactive, allowing users to make decisions within the training, whether from a first person perspective or through an avatar or character. Together, these factors help people become emotionally connected to the content. This sense of immersion, where learners begin to displace the physical world, creates a more memorable experience aiding greater understanding, retention and motivation. The bottom line is that engagement really should not be a problem in a successful simulation-based training exercise.
n Just like being there Some of the best simulation-based training creates a representation of a real life experience which can be beneficial in a number of ways. From an organisational point of view, a particular scenario may be too dangerous or impractical to recreate in any other way, for example, a fire, a natural disaster or a remote location. A simulation may be the only cost-effective option for overcoming logistical problems, such as training sales staff worldwide on a new product. A simulated environment can also act as a safe, forgiving space for people to explore and learn. Providing learners with a risk-free environment where they can try and fail (as well as succeed) can be a particularly effective instructional tool.
Flight training may be the poster boy of simulation, but 3D immersive learning experiences are now starting to appear in mainstream corporate training.
Affordability Slowly but surely advances in technology are making the use of 3D simulation in corporate training an increasingly affordable option. Clearly, cost depends on the complexity of the project, but innovations in 3D modelling and other associated technologies are opening up the possibilities as never before. It’s possible to insert 3D elements into Articulate Storyline 2, for example, and most popular e-learning authoring tools can incorporate 3D elements in various forms, such as an interaction or a video. For organisations wanting to keep costs down, using simulation for specific elements of the training where immersion will have the greatest impact, is one approach. Another is using a first person experience to avoid the need to create a fully-blown avatar or character, or combining 3D and 2D elements in the same training module. Cost as a barrier is likely to be further eroded as simulation-based training continues to evolve, and it’s this topic I’d like to explore next.
Exciting future A more realistic, seamless learning experience, tailored towards the individual learner seems to be moving ever closer. In the next decade, we are likely to see significant advances in technology which will change our ability to deliver on the promise of simulation. Predicting which of the emerging technologies is most likely to deliver a closer integration between workplace training and simulation is a tricky business but I am watching some innovations with particular interest and anticipation:
12 e.learning age june 2015
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