VR or XR content can help create a more engaging experience for learners. Studies show that immersive learning improves knowledge retention by as much as 90%. So clearly, it works.
But there are often perceived barriers to adopting VR. How do you create VR content? How do you scale VR content? What type of learning works best for VR?
It’s actually not as complicated as it might seem. And with technologies like Web VR and the ability to integrate VR in Moodle, Canvas, Blackboard and LMS’s using LTI plus other other web-based approaches, VR can be accessible to multiple learners in an affordable way.
VR cameras that shoot 360 video, or even 180 video, can be very affordable. And choosing the right VR authoring tool to build and share your content is easy. For example, YouTube now hosts 360 Video and tools like Near-Life make interactive VR learning experiences easy to design, build and share.
If you’re new to this space, here are just five of some of the most well established use cases of VR learning. Yes, VR can be used to construct tours and a whole manner of interactive and immersive learning experiences – but we’ll look here, specifically at VR simulations: a great way to get started.
Medical and healthcare learning
Simulation learning is well established in the healthcare space: from nursing simulations to decision-based patient scenarios and emergency response. The advent of VR has opened up a whole new way to provide interactive, scalable experiences that provide realistic scenarios for medical and healthcare professionals to practice their skills in a safe and controlled environment. Surgeons can perform virtual surgeries, nurses can practice patient care, and emergency responders can simulate critical situations, all enhancing their decision-making and procedural abilities.
Technical and vocational training
VR simulations can be highly effective for training individuals in technical and vocational fields. For example, mechanics can practice repairing complex machinery, electricians can learn to handle electrical systems, and pilots can undergo flight training in virtual environments. These simulations allow learners to gain hands-on experience without the risks associated with real-world scenarios.
Safety and emergency preparedness
When the need to make things as realistic as possible is there, VR simulations can help prepare individuals for emergency situations by simulating hazardous environments and providing interactive training experiences. Firefighters can practice firefighting techniques, emergency responders can train for disaster scenarios, and industrial workers can learn safety protocols in high-risk settings.
Soft skills and communication training
Immersive VR learning offers a unique platform for developing soft skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork. Learners can engage in realistic scenarios where they interact with virtual characters, enhancing their abilities to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and make decisions in various professional and interpersonal contexts.
Language learning and cultural immersion
VR simulations can create immersive language learning environments where learners can practice their language skills in realistic scenarios. From ordering food in a virtual restaurant to engaging in conversations with virtual characters, learners can enhance their language proficiency and cultural understanding in an interactive and engaging manner.
Learn, test, remember
These are just a few examples of the many potential use cases for VR learning simulations. The immersive nature of VR allows learners to actively participate, make mistakes, and learn from their experiences, leading to enhanced retention and skill development. The specific use cases will vary based on industry, learning objectives, and target audience.
Want to create your own interactive VR learning?
If you’d like to learn more about how Near-Life is a great tool for creating interactive VR and XR content, you can book a demo to speak with one of our team.