Many of the job performance tasks that we require of our modern workforce involve specialized training on expensive or dangerous equipment. Others call for very detailed and precise procedures that take time and practice to learn. Medical professionals in particular are involved in potentially life-and-death situations, where only their training and experience can avert disaster.
All of these workplace scenarios and countless others are prime candidates for the latest generation of training simulations. Advances in technology and programming have allowed for the creation of training simulations that are more realistic and more effective than ever before. They are also safer, less expensive and easier to administer than the hands-on training they replicate.
What Is A Training Simulation?
Training simulations often use high-quality 3D modeling and high-definition audio to create a virtual reality world in which learners can practice performing tasks correctly and safely. Using custom graphics and animations these training simulations are interactive and engaging, allowing participants to immerse themselves in a realistic environment. They are able to make decisions, perform tasks and choose the right course of action through a specific activity or job process.
There are several forms that training simulations can take, including first-person directed simulations, guided experience simulations, and other techniques. Thanks to faster computing speeds and updated development tools, these simulations are becoming extremely realistic and life-like.
Benefits Of Training Simulations
One of the greatest benefits of training simulations is having the freedom to fail. This not only takes an immense amount of pressure off of the job performer, but also reduces the risk of damage or injury. A perfect example of this is a worker who is training to operate a heavy-equipment crane in a setting where other workers are around. One mistake or error in judgment could mean property or equipment damage, or worse; injury or death. By practicing the movements and operation in a simulated environment, the worker gains necessary skills without fear of failing and the sever consequences of such.
Another benefit is the ability to practice tasks anywhere, at any time. A worker can practice during off hours, or can brush up on job performance skill as a refresher just prior to performing the task in real life. An example of this might be a technician who is being sent into the field to install a complex piece of equipment. During the flight he can use a training simulation to perfect his skills and perform the task virtually. As a result he will be more confident and more capable when doing the actual installation. We would hope the technician wouldn’t be sent out on a job before they were ready, but you get the picture.
Training simulations can also be used to prepare and train for emergency response to disasters. Since a disaster can strike at any time, having a well-trained response force available is critical. The time to train a team is not during the disaster, but before it happens.
Training Simulations Can Save Money, Time and Lives
There is an obvious advantage to training that can be done virtually, as it saves the expense of employee travel. It also allows for training on equipment that may be too expensive to practice on, or that may not be available to train a large workforce. And once a training simulation is developed, it is extensible throughout the organization – and to anywhere in the world.
The time that it takes to send employees to training is often a primary reason for delay or deferment of important skill-building. Training simulations can save time by bringing the training to the employee for completion when work schedules permit.
In the most extreme cases, lives can be saved when training simulations are used in place of ineffective hands-off training– or no training at all. By practicing potentially dangerous tasks in a simulated setting, workers gain valuable skills and experience that can save their lives or the lives of others.
Here at Designing Digitally, Inc., we specialize in developing customized training simulations for a wide variety of industries and trades. From 3D simulations to custom animations, we’ll create a realistic training experience for your employees. Let us know how we can help your organization to develop a better-trained workforce.