XR & Education- Powering Enterprise Learning and Skill Development

Introduction

In the dynamic landscape of today’s workplace, the need for effective learning and development strategies is more crucial than ever. With rapid technological advancements and societal shifts, traditional methods fall short. Organisations are turning to innovative solutions, such as Extended Reality (XR), to equip employees with the essential skills for the future of work.

The Rise of XR in Learning and Development

Extended Reality (XR), comprising virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), is transforming enterprise learning. Businesses are increasingly adopting XR solutions to bridge skills gaps and enhance traditional learning and development (L&D) approaches. 

Case Study: PwC’s Research on XR Training Efficiency

PwC’s recent study emphasises the effectiveness of XR, revealing that VR-trained employees not only complete training four times faster but also exhibit 275% more confidence in applying their knowledge. This increased confidence leads to better retention and application of learned skills in real-world scenarios.

The Immersive Learning Experience

XR technology provides experiential learning by immersing users in simulated environments to practice and develop new skills. This approach is particularly valuable for training soft skills or ‘power skills,’ like emotional intelligence and active listening. Managers can refine coaching skills through XR-based simulations, engaging in lifelike one-on-one sessions with virtual employees, enhancing knowledge retention and application.

XR-Based Soft Skills Training

Studies show that VR training reduces learning time by half, with knowledge retention rates two to three times longer than traditional methods. XR-based simulations for coaching allow comprehensive analysis, tracking everything from posture and tone of voice to wording, providing valuable insights for skill improvement.

Reskilling and Upskilling with XR

In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the demand for reskilling and upskilling is pressing. XR-based learning facilitates the acquisition of both process-oriented and behavioural skills, effectively addressing challenges posed by innovations like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and the internet of things. The efficiency and cost-effectiveness of XR make it a preferred choice for organisations adapting to the evolving business landscape.

Beyond Traditional Learning

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the need for organisations to rethink employee development. XR offers a more engaging alternative aligned with the new normal of work. As companies transition to hybrid work models, XR provides a solution to create a sense of belonging and support for social interactions, crucial for employee satisfaction and retention.

Adapting to the New Normal with XR

The pandemic has prompted organisations to adopt XR as a solution for creating a better normal in employee development. XR’s immersive nature helps employees stay engaged and relevant, addressing challenges posed by remote or hybrid work environments. The Accenture Immersive Learning Survey indicates a strong correlation between XR adoption and improved employee satisfaction and retention.

Investing in Employee Learning and Development

The new reality demands increased investments in employee learning and development. Traditional training methods fall short, and organisations recognize XR’s potential to revolutionise L&D functions. Accenture’s Immersive Learning survey reveals that over 90 percent of executives believe existing training methods need to be more effective. XR not only enhances employee engagement but also allows for the creation of unique, tailored training content, contributing to the reputation of companies as talent-focused organisations.

Extending the Purpose

Companies must expand XR learning activities beyond discrete staff training. Extending the use cases of XR headsets modernises the work experience, delivering benefits in onboarding, recruiting evaluations, collaborative events, mental/physical well-being, and fitness applications.

Case Study: Indiana Department of Child Services

The success of increasing the scope of XR deployment is evident in the Indiana Department of Child Services. Faced with a high attrition rate, the department implemented a customised VR training system, cutting worker turnover by 31%. This example demonstrates the revolutionary power of spreading XR applications beyond standard training settings.

Unleashing Immersive Learning’s Full Potential

While the benefits of immersive learning via XR are numerous, businesses are cautious about investing in such solutions. Careful exploration and creating XR experiences for specific use cases or institutional units are essential. With a well-defined vision, strategic direction, and an integrated immersive learning environment, businesses can overcome impediments and fully leverage the potential of enterprise XR.

Final Words

As we navigate the complexities of the future of work, XR emerges as a powerful tool for HR managers, CXOs, VP human resource, and L&D professionals. The undeniable benefits of XR in enterprise learning and skill development offer a more efficient, engaging, and cost-effective alternative to traditional methods. Embracing XR is not just a technological leap; it is a strategic move towards future-proofing businesses, enabling them to thrive in the dynamic and evolving landscape of the modern workplace. The time to leverage XR for the future of education is now, unlocking the true potential of immersive learning experiences.