By the Numbers: The Impact of Augmented and Virtual Reality in L&D
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In recent years, technology has revolutionized various aspects of our lives, and learning and development (L&D) is no exception. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have emerged as powerful tools in the realm of training and development, enhancing engagement, knowledge retention, and overall learning experiences. In this article, we’ll explore the impact of AR and VR in L&D, providing compelling data and specific real-world examples that showcase the power and possibilities of these immersive technologies.
Improved Engagement and Knowledge Retention
One of the key benefits of AR and VR in L&D is their ability to create highly immersive and interactive learning environments. Traditional training methods often struggle to maintain learner engagement and facilitate long-term knowledge retention. However, studies have shown that incorporating AR and VR can significantly improve these aspects.
A study by the National Training Laboratory also found retention rates for VR learning were dramatically higher than other modalities: VR learning resulted in a 75 percent retention rate, while lecture-style learning resulted in a 5 percent retention rate and reading resulted in a retention rate of 10 percent.
Miami’s Children Health System also found that using VR training resulted in up to an 80% retention rate one year after training, compared to a retention rate of just 20 percent one week after traditional training.
Enhanced Skills Development and Training
AR and VR offer unique opportunities for hands-on training and skill development, particularly in industries where practical experience is crucial. From healthcare simulations to technical training, these technologies enable learners to practice in a safe and controlled environment, leading to improved performance and reduced risk.
A study from UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine found that VR training improved participants’ overall surgical performance by 230%, compared with traditional training methods. In addition, VR-trained learners completed procedures 20% faster, on average, than traditionally trained learners. VR learners also completed 38% more steps correctly in a procedure-specific checklist.
Cost Savings and Scalability
Implementing AR and VR in L&D can result in significant cost savings by reducing the need for physical training resources, such as equipment, materials, and dedicated training facilities. Furthermore, these technologies offer scalable solutions that can reach a broader audience, regardless of geographical limitations.
Duke Energy, one of America’s largest energy holding companies, recently introduced VR modules for simulated field service training for their technicians. VR-trained technicians were able to perform tasks three times faster than classroom-trained technicians, and the company forecasts annual cost savings of more than $500,000, including instructor and travel expenses.
A PwC study found that VR learners were 4 times faster to train than classroom learners and 4 times more focused than their eLearning peers. The time saved through VR training translates directly to increased cost savings and improved productivity.
Additionally, the PwC study found that when VR training is delivered to enough learners, it is more cost-effective at scale than classroom or e-learningAt first, making VR content can cost up to 48% more than making similar stuff for a classroom or online course. So, it's important to have enough people using it to make it cost-effective.
According to this study, VR training achieved cost parity with classroom learning at 375 learners. At 3,000 learners, VR training became 52% more cost-effective than classroom, and at 1,950 learners, VR training achieved cost parity with eLearning. The more people you train with VR, the higher your ROI will be in terms of time and money you save on employee training and course costs.
Real-time Performance Support
AR, in particular, can serve as a valuable tool for providing real-time support and guidance to learners in their day-to-day work environments. By overlaying digital information onto the physical world, AR enables employees to access relevant resources, instructions, and expert advice instantaneously.
In fact, Lockheed Martin saved more than $1 million the first day they used augmented reality to guide assembly workers. Delivered through a HoloLens headset, AR prevented one of Lockheed’s engineers from placing the wrong module in a key location on a one-million-dollar piece of sheet metal, which was intended for use on a NASA spacecraft. Thanks to augmented reality, Lockheed and the engineer were able to avoid a very costly mistake.
Augmented and Virtual Reality Training - Putting It All Together
The impact of augmented and virtual reality in L&D cannot be understated. The examples and statistics presented in this article demonstrate the transformative power of these technologies. From improved engagement and knowledge retention to enhanced skills development, cost savings, and real-time performance support, AR and VR are reshaping the way we learn and train. As technology continues to advance, it is vital for organizations and businesses to embrace these innovative tools to unlock the full potential of their learning and development initiatives.