Use 3D Simulation to transfer skills from Boomers to Millennials

People leave. Knowledge doesn’t have to.

As Baby Boomers head into retirement, the workforce turnover will leave inexperienced, younger workers at the helm. For processes to continue safely and productively across a host of industries, training these workers well in a short period of time is paramount.

But time isn’t the only obstacle. The difference in learning styles between the generations is distinct as well – including varying attention spans, preferred communication methods, and attitudes about employment. How does a generation that understands the importance of doing things communicate their knowledge to a generation that values the virtual over the actual? They must meet in the middle.

The urgent need to quickly and efficiently transfer knowledge from today’s aging workforce to the new generation of workers is one of the main reasons industrial organizations invest in simulator-based operator training.“ – Janice Abel

3d Simulation for knowledge transferSimulation as common ground
The most natural way for Baby Boomers to transfer skills is to teach others in the way they were taught.  “Doing” comes naturally to their generation, but using expensive, live equipment for training is often cost-prohibitive – and even dangerous. 3D Interactive Training offers the best of all worlds – allowing Boomers to demonstrate real-life application of skills, using technology that’s second nature to Millennials.

“Simulation software and immersive technology have a game-like feel, which appeals to the Millennial generation,” says Stephanie Neil in Automation World. Meanwhile, Baby Boomers can teach as they’ve always learned: through active participation.

Doing is doing – whether virtual or actual.

Win, win, win
The benefits don’t end there. The National Training Laboratory (NTL) reports that students retain, on average, 75% of things learned via simulation. This is clear proof that simulation training works – and when used as part of a blended learning strategy, it can be even more effective. And effective is the name of the game. Win.

As a generation, Millennials are particularly aware of their individual differences, and expect businesses – both their employers and those marketing to them – to accommodate this. “One size fits all” just won’t work.
Simulation training allows Millennials to learn at their own pace, placing as much emphasis on independent study as they’d like. Users receive instant feedback at the end of each task, allowing them to assess their progress, and practice sections they’ve found difficult – something else Millennials like. Win.

Another huge benefit – the marginal costs of deploying 3D simulation to a new set of trainees is practically zeroWin.

See a 3D Simulation in action below:

“Gen Y workers are used to immediate feedback on how they are doing.  It comes from their digital world where information is shared frequently and quickly.”Robert Tanner

But the most important advantage of simulation training is the ability to work through high-risk scenarios safely. This is especially critical with so many experienced workers moving on in a short span of time. New workers must be able to gain the same degree of expertise rapidly, and with 3D Interactive Simulation they can.

“People can explore what will happen if they do something, which in the real world, you just can’t test,” Nexen simulation training specialist Stan Hamilton reminds us.

Training to build on
With retirement on the horizon for many Baby Boomers, the window of opportunity is closing for businesses to get new workers up to speed. Simulation training, using portable devices like iPads, makes group training affordable and efficient.

And because interactive training programs can be easily modified, built upon and expanded over time, the experience of older workers can remain part of your organization even after they’re long gone.

 Don’t let knowledge retire early. Reach out for a free consultation today and discover how our 3D Interactive Training apps can help your business transfer skills.