To quote Jeremy Dalton, author of the book Reality Check: How immersive technologies can transform your business, "VR offers the best of all worlds: the ability to create a believable, engaging, and easily repeatable scenario but without the associated cost, disruption or danger of the real thing."

Bank of America employs over 50,000 people across the world. And training them to meet a uniform efficiency level is expensive and time-consuming. Typical click-through, e-learning methods rarely produced satisfactory outcomes. This led BoA to work closely with L&D experts to develop virtual reality (VR) based training methods.

Currently, VR is used to train staff on routine but important tasks like how to open accounts, as well as more complex tasks like making effective service calls. With feedback on learner progress being incorporated into these training modules, BoA has scaled up training tremendously, with good results achieved within much shorter time periods.

In the ever-evolving landscape of L&D, traditional training methods are being revolutionized by immersive learning experiences. With virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies, organizations are now able to create highly engaging and interactive training programs that transport learners into realistic and engaging environments. These cutting-edge technologies have the power to revolutionize how we learn, enabling us to acquire new skills and knowledge in previously unimaginable ways.

• Understanding VR and AR
  Before we dive into the applications and benefits of VR and AR in learning and development (L&D) let's first understand what these technologies are. VR is an immersive computer-generated simulation that transports users into a three-dimensional environment, usually experienced by wearing a headset that comes with a screen. Actions users make get reflected in this virtual world, allowing them to interact with the virtual world. On the other hand, AR overlays digital information in the real world, enhancing the user's perception of their physical surroundings. For instance, using AR, an inspector of a building might be able to view on his smartphone a digital panel providing details of the concealed electrical conduits passing through the structure.
  The idea of virtual reality (VR) has been around for decades, but recent technological progress has significantly improved its accessibility and affordability. Likewise, AR has gained popularity with the widespread use of smartphones and the introduction of AR-enabled applications. Together, these technologies offer a new dimension to learning and development, providing learners with a dynamic and immersive experience.
• Examples of successful VR and AR applications in L&D
  On May 25, 2022, Boeing’s Starliner space program (which plans to begin commercially sending astronauts to space to dock with the International Space Station) successfully completed its final unmanned Orbital Test Flight -.take-off from Cape Canerval (USA), a precise docking at the ISS and the safe return to earth. Now the Starliner team is preparing for the manned trip. And these preparations include intense training using VR.
  
  Wearing VR headsets that help prospective space travelers read even the fine print on simulated cockpit gauges and display units, saves Boeing millions on expensive training in real space crafts. While this highlights how accurate VR training modules have become, in order to be employed in niche, yet critical use cases, their applications are now mainstream across many diverse industries. Many organizations have already embraced these technologies to create impactful and memorable training programs. Let's explore some successful examples:
• Medical training
  Medical students can now practice complex surgeries and procedures in a virtual environment. VR allows them to experience the operation room, perform mock surgeries on simulated knees or hearts, repeatedly, quickly gaining a evel of competency that would normally require years to achieve. These VR-based training modules are designed and developed by L&D companies working closely with leading medical establishments like AIIMS, making top-notch training available to a wider learner population - without the need for real patients.
  
  Read here: Digitalization In Healthcare: Are You A Digital Dinosaur?
• Assembly/Safety training BMW, Germany uses VR to train its employees in design and prototyping. It begins with managers getting trained digitally to transfer their knowledge to a wider workforce. Examples of how BMW applies VR include employees learning how to set up factories more efficiently using lean manufacturing; using 3D scanning to create a realistic setting for which products are designed, with participant feedback being incorporated to improve the training over time. Since employees can train at their own pace, engagement is high, and efficiency has improved considerably. Companies in manufacturing and logistics also use VR and AR to simulate hazardous situations and train employees on safety protocols. This immersive approach enhances safety awareness and reduces the risk of accidents.
• Assembly/Safety training BMW, Germany uses VR to train its employees in design and prototyping. It begins with managers getting trained digitally to transfer their knowledge to a wider workforce. Examples of how BMW applies VR include employees learning how to set up factories more efficiently using lean manufacturing; using 3D scanning to create a realistic setting for which products are designed, with participant feedback being incorporated to improve the training over time. Since employees can train at their own pace, engagement is high, and efficiency has improved considerably. Companies in manufacturing and logistics also use VR and AR to simulate hazardous situations and train employees on safety protocols. This immersive approach enhances safety awareness and reduces the risk of accidents.
• Language learning VR and AR can transport language learners to foreign environments, providing an immersive language learning experience. Learners can practice conversational skills with virtual native speakers and explore culturally diverse scenarios.
• Product training Companies across Europe like Audi, Peugeot and Volkswagon work closely with reputed L&D providers to develop VR and AR-based training modules for employees on new products or services. Instead of relying on static training materials, employees can interact with virtual products in dynamic situations and learn through hands-on exploration. For instance, a new product feature on a car tested via VR can reveal that it leads to poor maneuverability in wet weather. Hence, a long wasteful cycle of product development can get nipped in the bud. These examples highlight the versatility and effectiveness of VR and AR in various industries. As organizations continue to explore the potential of these technologies, the possibilities for immersive learning experiences are endless.

• Benefits of VR and AR in L&D
  The integration of VR and AR in L&D brings a multitude of benefits to both learners and organizations.
• Immersive learning experiences enhance engagement and motivation. Traditional training methods often struggle to captivate learners and keep them actively involved. However, VR and AR provide the interactivity that traditional methods lack. By immersing learners in realistic and often game-like environments, these technologies grab their attention and make the learning experience more enjoyable.
• VR and AR enable learners to practice new skills in a safe and controlled environment. For example, in industries such as healthcare and aviation, where real-life scenarios can be risky or expensive to replicate, VR and AR offer cost-effective solutions. Learners can simulate complex procedures or scenarios without any real-world consequences. This hands-on training approach enhances learning retention and allows learners to develop their skills through repeated practice.
• VR and AR provide personalized and adaptive learning experiences. These technologies can track and analyze learners' interactions, allowing for real-time feedback and personalized guidance. Learners can receive instant feedback on their performance, identify areas for improvement, and adapt their learning journey accordingly. This individualized approach to learning ensures that each learner receives the support they need to succeed.
• Conclusion From banks to manufacturers and from medical training to language learning, VR and AR offer endless possibilities for creating impactful and memorable learning experiences. By understanding the benefits, applications, and challenges of these technologies, organizations can harness their power and unlock the full potential of immersive learning in L&D.
• Also read: 5 Training Priorities For L&D To Focus On In 2023