Immersive Learning – An engaging and effective learning method

"I hear and I forget.?I see and I remember. I do and I understand." – Confucius

?‘Learn by doing’ is one of the earliest methods of learning. Since the beginning, humans have learned by doing, and it remains one of the most effective methods to bring Content and Context together. Experiential learning helps in bringing perspective to a topic being learned. While experiential learning is effective it can be costly and dangerous. Modern technologies can bring the otherwise expensive experiential learning at a reduced cost.

?As per Gartner, Immersive learning can be defined as learning situations that are constructed using a variety of techniques and software tools, including game-based learning, simulation-based learning, and virtual 3D worlds. Immersive learning can be distinguished from other learning methods by its ability to simulate realistic scenarios and environments that allow learners to practice skills and interact with other learners. [1]

?According to Precedence Research, the global immersive technology market size was valued at USD 22.5 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 22.3% from 2023 to 2032. The immersive learning market is expected to reach USD 167.75 billion by 2032. [2] This growth can be attributed to factors such as - increased adoption of Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and Mixed reality, and Demand for immersive learning experiences in sectors like Education, Defense, Retail, Healthcare, Aerospace, Construction, etc.

?Immersive learning can be used in a wide variety of education and training settings. It can be used to teach a variety of subjects in K-12 and higher education. Immersive learning can be used in corporate training for various sectors like retail, healthcare, manufacturing, etc. It can also be used in military and medical training to provide a safer environment to learn. It can also be used in museums and cultural institutions to provide visitors with a more immersive and engaging experience. Immersive learning can be more beneficial than traditional online learning,

• Increased engagement: Immersive learning is more engaging and motivating than traditional online learning methods, which can lead to higher learner satisfaction and retention rates.
• Improved learning outcomes: Immersive learning can lead to better learning outcomes, as learners are more likely to retain and apply the information they learn.
• Safer learning: Immersive learning can be used to train learners in dangerous environments, without the risks associated with real-world training.
• Personalized learning: Immersive learning can be tailored to individual learners' needs and preferences, making it more effective for them.

?In real-world scenarios where immersive learning is being used to impart quality training,

• ?Medical training: VR simulators allow learners to practice procedures on virtual patients multiple times, which can help them improve their skills and reduce the risk of errors. For example, Cedars-Sinai and GIBLIB have launched a course employing 4K and 360-degree virtual reality. The content emulates operating room environments, featuring surgeon points-of-view and other angles to showcase support provided by the surgical team. [3]
• Flight training: Flight simulators have been used to train pilots for decades, and VR headsets are now being used to provide even more realistic simulations. Emirates is planning to develop a virtual reality platform for cabin crew training. The plan is to create an immersive training environment, enabling crew members to learn from facilitators and navigate the interiors of the airline’s A380 and B777 aircraft. [4]
• Retail training: Immersive retail training programs allow employees to practice their skills in a virtual environment, such as greeting customers, resolving customer complaints, and making sales. For example, Walmart uses VR to train its employees in customer service skills. Walmart is using virtual reality for use cases such as preparing employees for the commotion when customers swarm stores on Black Friday and evaluating how workers respond to angry shoppers. [5]
• Safety training: Immersive safety training programs allow employees to practice their skills in a variety of dangerous scenarios, such as responding to a fire or chemical spill. For example, Shell uses VR to train its employees on how to respond to an accidental overspill on a storage tanker. [6]

?As VR, AR, and MR technologies continue to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative and effective applications of immersive learning. These technologies have the potential to transform education, training, and workplace development, making learning more engaging, accessible, and effective for everyone.

?Let me know your thoughts in the comments about various use cases of immersive learning that can be implemented in education and training.

?Sources

[1] https://www.gartner.com/en/information-technology/glossary/immersive-learning-environments-iles

[2] https://www.precedenceresearch.com/immersive-technology market#:~:text= The%20global%20immersive%20technology%20market,22.3%25%20from%202023%20to%202032.

[3] https://www.cedars-sinai.org/newsroom/first-accredited-continuing-medical-education-course-filmed-in-vr/

[4] https://www.theaviatorme.com/news/emirates-vr-crew-training

[5] https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/technology/pages/virtual-reality-revolutionizes-walmart-training.aspx

[6] https://immerse.io/case_study/shell-health-and-safety-emergency-response-training/

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