Immersive Learning: The Complete Guide to Reimagining Employee Training with XR

Imagine a training experience where you’re not just reading from books or watching videos of someone else completing tasks. Instead, you’re practicing techniques in a hands-on environment, working on machines, interacting with virtual customers, or even performing medical procedures without risks. That’s immersive learning.

According to our research, “enhancing training” is one of the top use cases for extended reality technologies among organizations today – and it’s easy to see why.

Companies like Nokia and EY have shown that immersive learning experiences significantly reduce training costs, improve safety by 59%, and boost sustainability. Companies can accelerate development strategies by offering employees tailored, interactive, and experiential learning experiences, enhance knowledge retention, and even increase employee engagement.

If you’re looking for a way to elevate employee training programs, now could be the perfect time to invest in immersive learning.

What is Immersive Learning?

Immersive learning is an educational strategy that uses technology to create interactive environments and real-world simulations for skill development. Learners can actively engage, practice, and refine their skills in a controlled, virtual setting.

The concept builds on the scientific findings that “experiential” learning, drives better learning outcomes for most participants. Learners are 3.75 times more emotionally connected to immersive content, and 70% of their knowledge acquisition typically comes from hands-on experience. Alternatively, traditional educational content is often quickly forgotten.

Today, immersive learning experiences can include a range of technologies, from virtual, augmented, and mixed reality solutions, to 360-degree videos. For instance:

VR Immersive Learning

Virtual reality (VR) creates fully immersive environments that replace the physical world entirely. By wearing VR headsets, learners are transported into three-dimensional, computer-generated settings where they can interact with objects and scenarios as if they were real, allowing for deep engagement and experiential learning. For instance, with OSSO VR, surgeons can practice procedures in VR.

Spatial computing can enhance the experience by empowering companies to experiment with digital twins, virtual collaboration tools, and even eye and motion-tracking technologies. These technologies don’t just transform VR immersive learning, they can impact AR and MR strategies too.

AR and MR Immersive Learning

AR overlays digital information onto the real world, enhancing one’s perception and interaction with their environment. Through devices like smartphones or AR glasses, learners can see and interact with digital annotations or 3D models integrated with a real-world environment.

Mixed Reality takes things to the next level, allowing for interactions between real and virtual elements in real-time, enabling learners to manipulate physical and virtual objects as they learn. For example, field workers can use AR and MR solutions to collaborate with teams in real-time, access training resources on the job, and learn “in the moment”.

360-Degree Videos

Slightly simpler than AR, MR, and VR technologies, 360-degree videos offer an immersive learning experience to users without dedicated headsets or smart glasses. They provide users with a panoramic view of an environment, allowing them to digitally explore scenarios from various angles.

By navigating through spaces within these videos, learners can observe and engage with situations as they unfold around them, providing a comprehensive understanding of the context and enhancing situational awareness.

The Proven Benefits of Immersive Learning

Immersive learning isn’t just a novelty. It’s based on decades of neuroscience research, which shows that the brain treats “immersive” experiences offered by VR, AR, and MR tools just like it would treat experiences encountered in real life.

On average, most students only remember around 30% of what they hear and 20% of what they see – but they recall 90% of what they experience. Research from PWC into immersive learning success rates even found that VR/AR technologies help learners to complete training four times faster, maintain four times more focus, and feel 40% more confident in their skills.

Here’s how immersive learning is changing the enterprise landscape.

Improved Engagement and Participation Rates

Traditional training methods often struggle to capture employees’ attention. It’s easy to get distracted when you’re watching a standard video or reading a manual. Even the completion rates for online courses only average at around 15% for most organizations.

Immersive learning addresses this challenge by embedding employees into lifelike scenarios to explore new environments and practice skills hands-on. XR technologies nurture a stronger emotional connection to learning materials, making the experience more memorable and enjoyable.

Plus, with digital twins and metaverse as a service solutions, companies can create personalized experiences for each learner based on their roles or needs. They can even deliver real-time feedback to team members using AI, allowing for faster skill development.

Enhanced Knowledge Retention

When team members are more connected to the content they’re given, they’re more likely to remember it. About 70% of what employees learn through traditional training can be forgotten in just 24 hours, but immersive learning experiences stick with learners.

XR solutions use storytelling, hands-on simulations, and multi-sensory feedback to really immerse users in exciting experiences. They can even feature gamification elements and personalized feedback, which help embed information more deeply into the learner’s memory.

In fact, Accenture studies have shown that training in VR can improve knowledge retention by up to 75%. That means team members get more value from their training, and businesses spend less time “reskilling” their employees.

Faster, Safer Skill Acquisition

We learn faster when we can actually practice using the skills we develop. Immersive learning helps people to develop muscle memories and confidence by allowing them to practice tasks in controlled, risk-free settings. Employees can experiment, make mistakes, and learn from them, all without worrying about real-world repercussions.

In dangerous settings, immersive learning is particularly valuable, as it eliminates various risks. As an example, the US fire department uses VR training programs to provide emergency responders with the skills they need to safely navigate burning buildings, without risk.

In the manufacturing space, students can learn how to handle hazardous materials and complex machinery, or make decisions in difficult situations, all without exposure to any dangers. Even in healthcare, medical professionals can practice surgical procedures without risking patient lives.

Greater Collaboration for Peer-to-Peer Learning

Sometimes, team members need to learn how to work seamlessly alongside employees in various situations. But it’s difficult for them to do this in an environment where many team members might work remotely or follow hybrid schedules.

Immersive learning bridges this gap by creating virtual spaces where employees can interact, collaborate, and learn together, regardless of their physical locations. Through shared virtual environments, teams can engage in group learning activities, simulations, and problem-solving exercises that promote teamwork and communication.

Even augmented reality solutions can empower new team members to learn and receive feedback from subject matter experts when they’re “on the job” while keeping their hands free for work.

Cost Effectiveness and Scalability

Although there are now a lot of cost-effective VR, AR, and MR headsets available to businesses, the initial expense of implementing an immersive learning experience can still be high. Companies need to pay for hardware, software, and even the support of developers.

Fortunately, the long-term cost savings generally outweigh the initial costs. Immersive training programs can be deployed at scale, adapted based on changing business priorities, and personalized to suit each team member. Plus, they help to reduce training time, which means employees can excel in their roles faster, whether they’re new to the business or building new skills.

Since immersive technologies also capture tons of data about learner interactions, performance and progress, companies can use that data to make intelligent decisions on how to adjust training content, and enhance employee development, while reducing costs.

Immersive Learning in Action: Real-World Case Studies

Probably the biggest benefit of immersive learning experiences is that they position people “within” the content they’re learning from, allowing them to experiment, interact, and explore experiences in a brand-new way without risk.

With immersive learning platforms, like those offered by ARuVR, companies can create lifelike simulations of real-world channels. For instance, in healthcare, teams can practice surgeries in an environment that mimics a real operating room.

Throughout the training experience, learners can make choices, observe the outcomes of their decisions, and enhance their critical thinking skills continuously. Plus, with real-time feedback, powered by AI, every learner can get their own real-time tutor, without a business needing to invest time and money into additional personnel.

Still unsure about the benefits of immersive training? Here are some real-world examples of companies using immersive learning to unlock opportunities across industries.

Healthcare: Revolutionizing Patient Care

In the medical field, immersive learning, particularly through virtual reality (VR), has become a vital tool for training professionals. For instance, UbiSim’s VR platform offers nurse trainees realistic scenarios in which to practice patient care. It even includes simulations with patients from diverse backgrounds and with various health conditions.

Worldwide, countless healthcare organizations are now using VR and extended reality to transform training experiences, from the NHS to UC Berkley. A celebrity doctor (Dr. Alex George) even said that he believes the Meta Quest 3 could be the most significant revolution in training for the NHS to be introduced in recent years.

Manufacturing: Reducing Risk in Training

The manufacturing sector has embraced immersive learning to enhance safety and efficiency. A great example of a company that has already achieved significant success comes from Autoliv China.

The firm collaborated with Microsoft to implement mixed reality (MR) solutions using HoloLens 2 headsets. This integration allowed for the creation of digital twins and 3D data visualizations, enabling employees to interact with virtual models of machinery and production lines.

Elsewhere, companies like Intel are using virtual electrical safety recertification courses to enhance VR training for engineers and minimize risks to team members interacting with dangerous machinery. The company recorded a 5-year ROI of 300% for their initiative. Even automotive companies like Volkswagen are using VR and AR tools to enhance assembly lines.

Retail: Enhancing Customer Experiences

In the retail sector, companies are experimenting with immersive learning to enhance team productivity and improve customer interactions. One of the most famous examples comes from Walmart, a company that introduced virtual reality training way back in 2019.

The company uses VR scenarios to help employees confront various customer service issues in virtual settings and practice responding to complex requests or complaints. According to the company, the strategy improved customer satisfaction scores by 10%.

Verizon, partnering with STRIVR, uses virtual reality training to prepare call center employees for dealing with difficult customers. The training strategy reduces nerves and anxiety among team members, improves verbal fluency, and increases confidence.

Corporate Training: Transforming Efficiency

In the corporate realm, companies are utilizing immersive learning to enhance various aspects of employee development. For instance, Emirates has introduced a VR-based training program named MIRA for its cabin crew. This platform provides 3D virtual environments simulating aircraft interiors, allowing crew members to practice safety and emergency procedures in a controlled, realistic setting.

In finance, Bank of America has upgraded employee onboarding with its “Academy” solution, designed to introduce team members to the day-to-day tasks they’ll need to complete and offer real-time feedback with an AI coach. Since the training was introduced, employees have shown a higher level of engagement at work, prompting BoA to roll out the initiative to more workers.

Even Vodafone has partnered with VirtualSpeech to train team members on how to improve their presentation skills in virtual reality. With a custom environment, team members can practice making presentations and receive real-time feedback from an AI assistant.

The Future of Immersive Learning

As skill shortages continue to plague companies worldwide, and traditional training programs become less effective, immersive learning is gaining traction. New trends are emerging all the time, as technology evolves, and new case studies are discovered.

For instance, in the last couple of years, we’ve seen the rise of:

Cutting-Edge AI Integrations

Artificial intelligence (AI) is taking immersive learning to the next level for XR adopters. AI-powered VR and AR systems can create interactive simulations that mimic real-life scenarios, adapting content based on individual learner performance.

Intelligent assistants can share instant feedback with each learner, reducing the need for a human training professional in development programs. AI systems are even helping companies create more immersive training experiences with generative AI solutions for code development.

Upgrades in Wearable Technology

Wearable solutions are becoming more ergonomic, lightweight, sophisticated, and versatile. Virtual reality headsets are adopting MR capabilities and spatial computing technologies (like the Meta Quest 3 and Apple Vision Pro). Companies are beginning to explore advanced AR glasses, too, with built-in smart assistants and access to remote assist applications.

Plus, vendors are introducing a range of accessories for immersive learning, like haptic feedback gloves, body suits, and more that provide ongoing sensory feedback. The tactile interaction enhances realism and helps to improve muscle memory development.

Versatile, Collaborative Virtual Environments

Collaborative virtual environments are transforming how teams train together. By creating shared virtual spaces, learners from different locations can interact, collaborate, and solve problems in real time. Innovative solutions are emerging all the time, from pre-built environments on Microsoft Mesh that teams can customize to metaverse-as-a-service solutions.

We’re even seeing the rise of more advanced systems for creating digital twins, like Varjo Teleport, to help businesses to create their own custom raining spaces. Plus, with upgrades to edge, cloud computing, and 5G networks, companies can create collaborative environments more effectively, without risking lag and latency when multiple people join a session.

Getting Started with Immersive Learning

Immersive learning is the future of education – not just for traditional schools and universities, but for organizations keen to upskill their workers, and enhance onboarding strategies. If you’re keen to dive in, here are our top tips for success:

• Define Your Goals: Begin by identifying areas where traditional training methods aren’t hitting the mark. Analyze current programs to pinpoint gaps in engagement, knowledge retention, or skill application. For instance, if employees struggle with complex machinery, an XR simulation could offer hands-on practice in a controlled environment.
• Choose the Right Technology: Select XR tools that align with your training objectives. Consider Virtual Reality (VR) for fully immersive experiences. Explore augmented reality (AR) to overlay digital information onto the real world. Or use Mixed Reality (MR) for a blend of both. There’s no one-size-fits-all option.
• Start Slow and Ramp Up: Start with a small-scale pilot to test the effectiveness of immersive learning, and the overall impact without a significant investment. Gather data on user engagement, learning outcomes, and technical performance to inform necessary adjustments before a full-scale rollout.

Immersive Learning: Education Redefined

Immersive learning is revolutionizing employee training. It offers engaging, effective, and scalable solutions for learning, while minimizing risk. In any industry, immersive learning solutions can transform how teams develop skills, share knowledge, and adapt to changing roles.

Ready to take the plunge into the next era of learning? Learn more about immersive education benefits here, or discover how to build the ultimate immersive learning strategy in this guide.

The future of learning is interactive, and experiential. Don’t be left behind.