Virtual Reality (VR) is transforming the landscape of workplace training, offering immersive and interactive experiences that enhance learning outcomes across various industries. The innovative technology – using computer modelling and simulation to create a wholly digital environment – is reshaping how people in the workforce acquire and retain new skills, particularly in the context of motor learning and development by immersing them in a 360-degree simulated world.
What is Motor Behaviour?
Motor behaviour is the study of how people learn, control, and develop movement skills. It includes all types of movement, from involuntary twitches to goal-directed actions, and can occur in any part of the body or social context. Applications often focus on what, how, and how much to practice. The field of motor behaviour is made up of three subdisciplines:
Motor learning – how people acquire new motor skills through practice and experience.
Motor control – how people control their movements.
Motor development – how people develop their movement skills.
The Intersection of VR, Motor Development and Motor Learning
Motor development and learning, defined as the process of acquiring and refining motor skills through practice and experience, is a crucial aspect of many workplace tasks. VR technology is particularly well-suited to facilitate this process, as it allows for repeated practice in safe, controlled environments.
Phases of Learning in VR
The three stages of motor learning – cognitive, associative, and autonomous – can be effectively supported through VR training:
Cognitive Stage
In this initial cognitive phase of motor learning, learners focus on understanding the task and making sense of the required movements. VR provides a risk-free environment for employees to experiment and make mistakes without real-world consequences. Here are more benefits of VR in the workplace >
Associative Stage
As learners refine their skills, VR allows for repeated practice with immediate feedback, helping to strengthen the association between specific cues and motor responses.
Autonomous Stage
In the final, autonomous stage of motor learning, the skill becomes automatic. VR can simulate various scenarios, allowing learners to practice until their performance becomes smooth and requires minimal cognitive processing.
Benefits of VR in Workplace Learning
Enhanced Retention and Recall
VR training has shown remarkable improvements in knowledge retention. A study by PwC discovered that participants using VR for training are 1.5 times more focused whilst in computer-generated virtual realities. Furthermore, retention rates for VR learning can reach 75% compared to just 5% for lectures and 10% for reading. This significant boost in retention is attributed to the immersive nature of VR, which engages multiple senses and creates memorable experiences.
Risk-Free Practice
One of the primary advantages of VR training is the ability to recreate high-risk or complex scenarios without putting employees in danger. This is particularly valuable in industries such as military, aviation and oil and gas, where real-world training could be hazardous or impractical.
Accelerated Skill Acquisition
VR training can significantly speed up the learning process. Employees can be trained up to four times faster in VR courses compared to traditional classroom methods. This efficiency is crucial for businesses looking to quickly upskill their workforce or onboard new employees.
Improved Engagement and Confidence
Learners who undergo VR training demonstrate up to a 275% increase in confidence to apply what they’ve learned, far surpassing traditional classroom and e-learning methods. This boost in confidence can translate to improved performance in real-world scenarios.
Virtual Reality examples across Industries
Manufacturing: Manufacturing environments whether in food processing, chemical production or petroleum refining, present unique risks. VR allows workers to safely practice critical procedures across various sectors, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Learn more about VR for Manufacturing training >
Construction: Construction sites are dynamic environments where safety is paramount. With VR, the workforce can practice procedures as many times as needed in virtual settings, reducing on-site accidents and eradicating the need to halt ongoing projects.
Learn more about VR for Construction training >
Aviation and Aerospace: The industry demands the highest safety standards. With VR, ground staff, aircraft engineers and cabin crew can be empowered with practical critical procedures in a risk-free environment to ensure safety and proficiency in the field.
Learn more about VR for Aviation training >
