Extended reality (XR) is a universal term inclusive of immersive learning technologies including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). These technologies extend reality by adding to or simulating the real world through digital materials that learners can interact with.
Check out 5 examples of using XR across training topics, including:
- Onboarding — Use AR to train new employees on how to operate and repair complex machinery.
- Diversity And Inclusion (D&I) — Simulate real-life situations and test learners’ responses to microaggressions with 360º VR.
- Customer Service Training — Use AR plane detection to place a simulated cash register in front of learners and test their customer service skills.
- Technical Training — Place learners in a simulated warehouse environment through full VR where they practice stacking boxes with the correct weight and orientation.
- Leadership Training — Use 360º VR to allow learners to practice having difficult conversations with their team members.
Each month, an estimated 57.4 million people use virtual reality (VR) and 90.9 million people use augmented reality (AR). In 2022, these numbers are projected to grow even more due to advances in hardware, lower costs, and improved software.
Are you one of the millions of people who’s jumping on the extended reality (XR) train?
At Roundtable Learning, we work closely with our clients to deliver the best XR training solutions. Whether it’s VR or AR, we collaborate with them to implement optimal training solutions that boost their bottom line and engage learners like never before.
This article will explain what extended reality is and provide 5 examples of using extended reality across training topics, including onboarding, diversity and inclusion, sales, and more.
What Is Extended Reality?
Extended reality (XR) is a universal term inclusive of immersive learning technologies including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). These technologies extend reality by adding to or simulating the real world through digital materials that learners can interact with.
By integrating XR into your training, you can immerse your learners in a multisensory environment that’s more interactive and effective long-term. To access XR training, learners have several options, including headset, smartphone, tablet, or desktop.
Read More: How To Select The Right Modality For Your Training: 5 Must-Ask Questions
5 Examples Of Integrating Extended Reality Across Training Topics
Onboarding With Augmented Reality Plane Detection
As part of an onboarding program, your organization can utilize AR to teach new employees how to operate complex machinery. Via smartphone, tablet, or wearable headset, learners launch their AR program and use AR plane detection to place an object on the surface in front of them.
Learners simply tap their screen to place a digital object on that surface, then they can interact with it in the following ways:
- Resize and rotate the object
- Walk around the object and view it holistically
- Break the object apart and examine individual parts
- Practice operating and repairing the object
Read More: 5 Goals Of Onboarding That Every Program Should Have
Diversity And Inclusion Training With 360º Virtual Reality
VR can enhance your D&I training by simulating real-life situations that test a learner’s soft skills across a variety of topics, including unconscious bias and microaggressions. With VR, learners can avoid uncomfortable situations in real life and learn from their mistakes in a simulated VR environment.
For example, an organization could use a 360º VR activity that builds empathy through role reversal. By putting on a VR headset, learners are instantly transformed into a conference room where they watch a microaggression take place from the point of view of their coworker. The learner learns how to build empathy for others by navigating the situation from the perspective of someone else.
Free eBook Download: How Training Can Support Your D&I Initiatives
Customer Service Training With Augmented Reality
AR is an effective technology for customer service training because it doesn’t jeopardize an organization’s business. With AR, learners can place a simulated version of a cash register in front of them and practice various tasks, including:
- Handling customer inquiries
- Operating the point-of-sale (POS) system
- Applying discounts and refunds on merchandise
This AR activity can be accessed from anywhere and avoids the need for real-life equipment. By completing this activity, learners will have the opportunity to correct their mistakes before stepping foot on the job and will feel more confident completing a sale in real life.
Technical Training With Full Virtual Reality
In this example, the learner is placed in a full VR warehouse environment where they experience all the real-life sights and sounds of their workplace. Throughout their VR activity, the learner practices how to properly stack boxes on a pallet.
The learner is tasked with deciphering which boxes go where according to their weight, as well as how to move their power equipment to let others pass. If done incorrectly, the learner is given tips for how to improve their actions and can repeat the activity as much as they need.
Read More: How To Increase Supply Chain Safety And Efficiency With Blended Learning
Are You Prepared To Extend Your Learners’ Realities?
In this article, we’ve defined what XR training is and provided 5 examples of XR training across training topics.
Are you ready to start designing your custom XR training program today? Reach out to one of our experts or explore what our process looks like at Roundtable Learning.
