Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have shown themselves to be transformative training technologies. Allowing the creation of rich and immersive learning environments, these two technologies have enabled many new approaches to learning and training. Even though VR has quickly risen in popularity in many fields, the potential of AR is often undervalued or forgotten.

While VR uses a specialized helmet and controllers to place learners in a virtual 3D environment they can explore, AR uses much simpler equipment (such as a smartphone) to overlay virtual elements onto the learner’s real environment.

Many interesting approaches to training are made possible by this often-underestimated technology:

Simulations and Visualizations

• AR can be used to enrich traditional learning materials such as textbooks, by overlaying digital contents (videos, animations, 3D models, etc.) over them.
• By manipulating interactive models and simulations, such as a 3D model of a molecule, learners can explore complex concepts in a more engaging and hands-on way.

Real-Time Support

• AR offers many advantages to on-the-job training. For instance, it can be used to visualize a process step-by-step, display contextual information while performing a task, or to provide real-time feedback to employees in training.
• AR can be used in technical training to assist learners in identifying components, manufacturing complex products, performing equipment maintenance, and more. Providing such on-the-job information can help reduce errors and improve employee efficiency. Providing such on-the-job information can help reduce errors and improve employee efficiency.

Inclusive and Accessible Learning

• AR can enable many forms of support and adaptive measures for learning presenting specific needs or functional limitations.
• Accessibility tools that are based on AR can provide text-to-speech or audio descriptions of visual information, modulate sensory input, and even provide navigation assistance in real time.

Selecting a Technology

It can be daunting to decide between VR and AR when comes the time to create training. The following questions can help you make an informed decision:

• Do I want to train my learners in a fictitious, carefully designed, and safe environment (VR), or do I want them to learn in the actual environment in which they will eventually work independently (AR)?
• Do I have the budget to develop digital environments and software to explore it (VR), or does my budget restrict me to creating digital objects such as 3D models and animations (AR)?
• Will my learners have access to virtual reality equipment (VR), or will they only have a smartphone or tablet (AR)?

No matter which technology you opt for or is permitted by your budget, VR and AR are both powerful training tools that can enrich the learning experience and engage learners in their learning process. What incredible experiences do you think you can create with these technologies?

With practical simulations that promote learning by doing, virtual reality (VR) and elearning are increasingly joining forces to create even more enriching learning experiences. Not only does VR provide an immersive and interactive learning experience, but it also ensures a completely safe environment. 

How does virtual reality contribute to a safer and more effective training environment? 

Training without physical risk: A revolution 

One of VR’s key strengths is its ability to recreate potentially dangerous environments without compromising the safety of learners. Whether it’s for emergency simulations, complex operations, or working at heights, VR allows for training in a secure environment. By minimizing the risks of real accidents during training, it becomes a valuable ally for companies that prioritize the safety of their teams. 

Being prepared for the unexpected: VR at the service of reactivity 

Virtual reality excels at preparing learners for emergency situations. Through realistic scenarios, they can train to react quickly and effectively to fires, breakdowns, or disasters. This type of immersive training not only strengthens technical skills but also improves stress management and the ability to follow safety protocols in critical situations. 

Preventing psychological risks: Controlled immersion

The total immersion offered by VR can sometimes be intense, even stressful for some individuals. Therefore, it is crucial that training sessions are designed to avoid excessive stress or anxiety. A debriefing after each session can help alleviate these effects and ensure the experience remains positive and educational.

Ergonomics and comfort: Ensuring user well-being 

Lastly, the physical aspect of using VR should not be overlooked. Training sessions should be short enough to prevent eye strain or headaches, with regular breaks to ensure comfort. Additionally, the training space should be arranged to avoid the risk of falls or collisions when users are wearing VR headsets.

Protecting data and privacy 

As with any digital tool, data security is paramount in the use of VR. It is essential to ensure that sensitive information, whether personal or strategic, is protected. VR platforms must offer safeguards against unauthorized access to preserve the confidentiality of training scenarios and user data. 

Virtual reality is revolutionizing corporate training by offering a unique combination of immersion and safety, making it an essential tool for modern businesses. However, like any powerful tool, its use must be guided by safety practices to ensure an optimal and risk-free learning experience! 

It is worth noting that elearning can increase learner retention rates from 25% to 60%, while face-to-face rates range between 8% and 10%… So imagine the results achieved with a VR experience!

Can you imagine offering your employees an online training to help them develop their skills, stay updated, or comply with health and safety regulations? It’s a fantastic learning opportunity! But before you dive in, do you know the importance of the Canadian Accessibility Law?

Since its enactment on July 11, 2019, this law aims to transform Canada into a country free of barriers for all. This means eliminating anything that could hinder the participation of people living with physical or intellectual disabilities.

To ensure inclusion within your company, it is essential to promote a fair and accessible work environment for all. This involves inclusive communication, awareness, and training on accessibility, as well as the use of adapted technologies to enable everyone to fully participate.

Let’s talk WCAG rules!

The WCAG 2.0 (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0) rules provide a framework for making web content more accessible, focusing on 4 fundamental principles: perceivability, operability, understandability, and robustness.

Perceivability involves making information accessible to people with sensory limitations. This can include text descriptions for images, high contrasts, subtitles for videos, and much more.

Operability ensures that features are accessible to all users, including those using assistive technologies. This includes keyboard navigability, predictability of behavior, and the removal of distracting elements.

Understandability concerns the clarity and simplicity of content and operation for everyone. This means using plain language, providing explicit instructions, and organizing content logically.

Finally, robustness ensures that web content is correctly interpretable by a variety of people and assistive technologies.

By applying the 4 principles of the WCAG rules in your online training programs, you offer everyone the opportunity to access information fairly. It is essential to consider these elements when creating online courses to ensure equitable access for all staff members. It is also strongly recommended to work with an experienced team specialized in educational technology to design your accessible online training courses!

A final piece of advice: converting inaccessible content into accessible content poses certain challenges. For some existing content, this is an inevitable operation. However, to avoid these challenges, we recommend designing all new content in accessible terms from the start!

And let’s not forget to celebrate! Since March 2023, the National Accessibility Week has been celebrated every year starting from the last Sunday of May. It’s a fantastic opportunity to recognize the progress made and continue to work towards a more inclusive world for all.