An Introduction to XR Training for Learning

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Extended reality (XR) is one of the hottest buzzwords in business and tech today, and it’s generating a ton of excitement, especially in the Learning & Development industry. But what exactly is XR, and how can it help with organizations’ training, learning, and development efforts?

What Is XR Learning?

XR or extended reality is the umbrella term used to describe the group of immersive technology options. This includes Augmented Reality (AR), CGI Virtual Reality (VR), Mixed Reality (MR), and immersive 360 video. In this blog post, we’ll take a deeper dive into some of these immersive modalities and how they can be integrated into Learning & Development.

What is Augmented Reality?

Augmented reality is the digital overlay of content into the real world. When scanned, an AR experience can produce images, video, links, and any other content types created for learning. AR is consumed through a mobile device or tablet. During use, the user stays present in the real world.

Want to experience augmented reality firsthand? Request your very own Intellezy immersive cube for a hands-on AR experience that’s eye-opening, entertaining, and educational.

What is Virtual Reality?

Virtual reality, also referred to as CGI virtual reality, is the full immersion of a learner into a simulated environment. This environment is fully customizable and interactive, consumed through a VR headset that separates users from the real world. Visuals for VR are like that of a high-end video game.

Screenshot of Intellezy's virtual reality soft skills training module

Screenshot of Intellezy's VR soft skills training module featuring Mr. Thomas Kim, an interactive photorealistic avatar, in our virtual office

What is Mixed Reality?

Mixed reality has the same characteristics as AR but allows for digital content to interact with the environment around it. Posters on walls, models on tables, and content on your face or body are a few of the ways digital content interfaces with the location it is being used in. Mixed reality is consumed through mobile devices and tablets as well as some higher-end wearable devices.

Man using a tablet for mixed reality interaction and training

What is 360 Immersive Video?

360⁰ video or immersive video is video content captured in a 360-degree sphere by using a camera with dual lenses, video is captured on all sides. 360⁰ video content can be consumed within a headset, mobile device, tablet, or web browser, and is typically less interactive. It works best for tours, storytelling, and when the learner is a participant in an event or experience.  

See an example of some 360 video we captured at the ATD 2023 International Conference & Expo below!

How Can XR Training Help with Learning & Development?

By immersing learners in realistic and interactive virtual environments, XR can provide unique learning opportunities. XR can simulate complex scenarios and high-risk situations, allowing learners to gain hands-on experience in a safe and controlled setting. For example, medical students can practice surgical procedures in a virtual operating room, improving their skills and confidence before entering a real-life operation theater.

Similarly, XR can be utilized to train employees in various industries, such as manufacturing, aviation, or construction, by offering realistic simulations of machinery operation, safety protocols, and emergency response training. By engaging learners in immersive and interactive experiences, XR promotes active participation, knowledge retention, and skill acquisition, ultimately leading to more effective learning outcomes.

XR technologies also enable the augmentation of the real-world environment with digital information and interactive elements. This combination of real and virtual elements enhances the learning process by providing additional context, guidance, and visualization of abstract concepts. For instance, in more industrial settings, AR applications can overlay digital information onto physical objects, such as parts and pieces of complex machinery, offering interactive explanations and engaging learners in a more interactive and memorable way.

Additionally, XR can support personalized and adaptive learning approaches, tailoring the content and pace of instruction to individual learners' needs. By tracking learners' progress and providing real-time feedback, XR applications can offer targeted interventions and support, helping learners overcome challenges and achieve learning goals more effectively. Overall, XR is revolutionizing learning and development by providing immersive, interactive, and personalized experiences that enhance engagement, retention, and overall learning outcomes.

XR Training Solutions from Intellezy

Are you ready to revolutionize your learning and development experiences? Look no further than our company's cutting-edge extended reality learning solutions. By harnessing the power of XR, we can transform the way you learn and grow. Whether you're an organization seeking to engage students in captivating lessons or a business aiming to reskill and upskill your employees, our XR solutions have got you covered.

Imagine stepping into realistic virtual environments, practicing complex tasks, and acquiring valuable skills in a risk-free setting. With our XR employee skill development, you can unlock the full potential of active participation, knowledge retention, and skill acquisition. Don't miss out on this opportunity to revolutionize your learning and development initiatives. Contact us today to explore how our expertise can propel your organization to new heights. Together, let's embark on a journey of immersive and impactful learning like never before.

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