Boosting Engagement and Learning Outcomes: The Power of Gamified Learning in Virtual Reality (VR)
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Gamification is loosely defined as applying game design elements to non-game applications such as workplace training.
The core aim of using gamification principles is generally to increase intrinsic motivation and engagement, both of which generally result in greater enjoyment (the aim of most games), and if applied to a learning context, better learning outcomes.
So what are some of the key principles that make gamification such a powerful Virtual Reality (VR) learning tool?
Let's look at 4 common ones:
Modern games are so engaging because they ‘draw in’ the player from the start. This is usually done by creating a strong narrative around the challenge and building the motivation to resolve it. This is often achieved through powerful cut-scenes, high quality media show dilemmas that often appeal to basic values.
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There is nothing more frustrating than trying to learn something and nothing you do seems to have an effect. Well designed games completely reverse this by providing immediate, clear and meaningful feedback as the player progresses. This is especially important during the early stages of game (or learning experience) where the player/learner is still unclear about the amount of control they have in the situation.
Many popular games provide almost unlimited possibilities of how to approach a situation or the game as a whole. They often provide large ‘free-roam’ worlds where players can choose to interact with the ‘main’ mission/challenge or alternatively, explore seemingly unrelated ‘side-quests’. This level of choice not only caters for all abilities and interest levels, it’s a powerful psychological mechanism to increase engagement. In well made games, this freedom is carefully balanced with enough hints, prompts and stories to keep the player focused on the central journey of the game.
Learning from mistakes is arguably the most powerful way to learn. It’s often not practical to allow for a lot of failure opportunities in formal learning contexts. However, in games, where anything is possible, creating many opportunities to fail makes for a very powerful learning tool. Especially when combined with rapid and visible feedback, allowing people to explore and go past their boundaries in a safe and repeatable manner this is a sure way to help people learn.
If you are a Learning & Development professional who is serious about making the most of this technology, schedule a call with the Facilitate team to find out how you could apply virtual reality gamified training to your organization.