Exploring the potential of the metaverse in training-EN
Sonsoles Saiz de Vera
- Always Learning
- Article
The metaverse is a term that has been on the lips of many lately, especially since major technology companies have announced plans to develop their own version of the metaverse. “It’s a growing trend”, as confirmed by several studies such as one by research firm Gartner, which predicted that 25% of people will spend at least one hour a day in the metaverse by 2026. As for Bloomberg, in a report in December 2021, it predicts that metaverse technology platforms will generate a business volume of $800 billion by 2024: the fear of losing this potential revenue is a powerful motivator for companies.
But what exactly is the metaverse?
In simple terms, the metaverse refers to a shared virtual space where users can interact and create content in real time. It resembles a virtual world where people can participate through avatars, and where interaction between users is more natural and immersive.
This term seems to have emerged overnight, however, it has a history: Back in 1992 science fiction writer Neal Stephenson created the term to describe the dystopian world depicted in his novel Snow Crash.
Benefits of the Metaverse
Although it is clear that the metaverse is still at an early stage of development, its potential is undeniable.
First of all, it provides a much more engaging experience thanks to the immersive dimension it brings not only by offering a three-dimensional visual and auditory world but also by allowing users to feel physical sensations through haptic technology (tactile experience through forces and vibrations).
In addition, it facilitates a more fluid interaction between the digital and real world and generates a more equitable space, since the multisensory experiences of the metaverse and the use of avatars could reduce the barriers of usability for people with disabilities and limit the impact of biases; also expanding the opportunities for interaction, participation and realization of activities without logistical obstacles.
With these benefits in mind, specifically, what can the Metaverse bring to the world of corporate training?
Firstly, thanks to its immersive experience, it will make knowledge retention easier.
In addition, it allows the simulation of real work situations at a very low cost, giving room for experimentation. This means that professionals can develop skills and practice in complex situations in a virtual environment. It will allow them to be better prepared to face similar situations in the real world by simulating different environments in safe and controlled spaces.
This is key for some sectors such as the manufacturing and medical industries. For example, the company Metaverse Learnning has already created different training programs that combine gamification and skills development in a safe environment for different areas (engineering, carpentry, health… etc).
Are there any companies that are using the Metaverse to train their employees?
Of course, in some companies, training in the Metaverse is already a reality. Here are just a few examples:
ErsteBank: is using VR (virtual reality) to train branch employees in a wide variety of customer relationship-oriented scenarios.
Dutch Railways is using VR to easily implement tours and practice maintenance and repair procedures, achieving significant cost savings.
Shell has been using VR for years to train its employees based on simulations to improve safety in the workplace. During training, different scenarios are simulated to practice the best ways to prevent failures and stay out of harm’s way, and safety has been shown to improve significantly.
Metaverse challenges
As we have seen, the metaverse offers many opportunities for training, however, there are some challenges to consider. One of the biggest challenges is the need for appropriate technology and equipment. To use the metaverse, both learners and trainers will need a compatible device, powerful computer, high-speed internet connections and an intuitive user interface to easily interact with the virtual environment. In addition, it is important to consider accessibility for people with visual or hearing impairments.
Another challenge is the creation of adapted content to this new technology. Training professionals will need to familiarize themselves with the tools and platforms available for the metaverse, as well as adapt their existing content for use in a virtual environment.
As Peter Druker says, “What can’t be measured, can’t be improved”.
As corporate training moves to the metaverse, it will be important to evaluate the effectiveness of this new form of learning. Training professionals will need to find ways to measure the impact of the metaverse on professionals’ acquisition of knowledge and skills, and use this data to improve training in the future.
Like any online technology, security and privacy are a major concern in the metaverse. Training professionals should work with security departments to ensure that workers are protected while participating in training and may include measures such as data encryption and user authentication.
Of course, integrating the metaverse into education may also require a learning curve for trainers, designers and administrators having to learn how to use the technology and adapt their pedagogical practices to the new virtual environment.
Overall, the use of the metaverse in corporate training can be a great opportunity as it offers an innovative way to learn and develop skills. With a strategic approach and a careful commitment to implementation, it can be a great benefit for companies looking to enhance and modernize their training and development strategy.
