When industry research shows how Virtual Simulation Training improves on traditional training methods, some may think that means replacing trainers or instructors with technology – but technology and trainers is no more an “Us vs. Them” scenario than parents vs. teachers in the real world. In fact, in both situations these supposed “clashes” actually complement each other.
More effective, guided learning for all styles
Classroom training sessions limited to arcane methods like powerpoints and training manuals may actually waste instructors’ time. If they need to reinforce the same lesson repeatedly because some trainees’ learning styles require a different approach – or because such “unexciting” materials result in low retention – that’s hardly effective or efficient.
Technology offers better options on two major fronts:
- Visual learning techniques such as computerized simulations have been shown to greatly improve retention of information as well as the overall learning experience for both teacher and student.
- ‘Hands-on’ virtual 3D Interactivity takes things even further by appealing to auditory and kinesthetic learners as well as visual. And with modules available on any device, you can train multiple workers at once – instead of in shifts using live equipment pulled off the production line.
Just like children have a much better chance at succeeding when parents and teachers work together, trainers can go further faster with the support of state-of-the-art training tools. Technology doesn’t eliminate the need for trainers – it just changes their role, for the better.
Improved quality of time with trainees
“Quality control starts and ends with training.” – Kaoru Ishikawa, Japanese quality guru and author
One advantage of adding technology into your training mix is improved quality of time spent between instructors and trainees.
Virtual interactive ‘learn-by-doing’ modules act in similar fashion to a parent helping with a child’s homework – they prepare trainees for the classroom or one-on-one instructor time ahead, so that time is more productive.
This is why improved teaching initiatives such as Strengthening Learning and Teaching Excellence (SLATE) are being developed at universities around the country such as Harvard Kennedy School of Government.
According to Dan Levy, Senior Lecturer in Public Policy and SLATE Faculty Chair, “The use of interactive online modules has allowed me to be much more deliberate about what I want students to learn before class and about how I can use class time more effectively to build on what they have learned.”
It’s a symbiotic relationship that translates to the workplace training world as well. Because technology like iPads make visual and interactive training modules more portable, trainees can spend as much time as they want getting familiar with equipment and procedures in advance of classroom or live training time.
With a very realistic idea of on-site job procedures trainees can approach trainers with better questions. And trainers can go deeper to ensure understanding is clear before transitioning to work on actual equipment.
Virtual Interactive Training modules, in concert with trainers, can even lead trainees through real-world scenarios, offering guidance on how to react in dangerous situations that could occur on the job. Being able to work through these scenarios safely, in a realistic way, can be the difference to avoiding injury or fatalities down the road.
The bottom line
When overall trainer-trainee interaction and productivity improves, so does your ROI. Effective learning ultimately saves time, energy and expense all around. These are the benefits of training technology.
It isn’t the enemy, and it can’t replace knowledgeable trainers who follow-through when trainees “go live.” Training endeavors are simply elevated through the use of 3D Interactive Simulation. Embracing this technology as a complement to live training is a way to expand the efficacy of your efforts – for workers and trainers alike. Mom and Dad would approve.
For more about how Visual, Interactive and Portable Training can affect your organization’s training ROI, reach out!
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