Welcome to the future! – How Extended Reality (XR) will change the way we learn
It has not been that long since we used to reach out for books to learn about the world. That is until the e-learning experience came to be, allowing us to learn subjects in new and engaging ways. With time, we also got used to it, and e-learning had to reinvent itself by optimizing the user experience and exploring new ways of engaging the learners. Gamification is, for instance, one of these latest developments focused on creating a unique user experience.
But e-learning evolution did not stop there. As technology is constantly changing, we create new ways to experience the world. From virtual reality (VR) goggles to imagine new realities, to redecorating your living room with the augmented reality (AR) IKEA app. In addition to this, the latest development from programmers is extended reality (XR), a new encounter with our world that e-learning companies cannot seem to get enough from!
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1. So, what is this XR thing?
2. How can my company benefit from this technology?
3. What is in for the learners?
So, what is this XR thing?
Other than a potential robot’s name in a Sci-Fi movie, it’s a technology that combines VR, AR, and mixed reality (MR). Still confused? Here’s a brief guide to them:
Virtual reality (VR)
Virtual reality is when you replace your reality with a new one. It was especially big in the gaming world, but it is also used in the world of learning. For instance, picture an astronomy student who wants to have a closer look at our galaxy and the planets on it. With the help of VR goggles, they can be able to replace the environment of their dorm room with a starry sky. Just like in actual reality, by moving around the room and tilting their head, they can get every angle of space without the discomfort of a spacesuit! But not only that. With the incorporation of a headset, they would be able to hear their environment and get the full experience.
Augmented reality (AR)
In opposition to the last technology, AR maintains the reality around you, size, look, feel… And you don’t need any extra gadgets! Only an app that allows you to interact with the environment. Ever heard of Pokemon Go? Your street can transform into a gaming field, where your phone works as a window to fantastic creatures and effects.
If you are still wondering about how to rearrange your room without making a mess, you should try the AR IKEA app. Place new objects, change the color of your sofa, rethink your interior design… The possibilities are endless.
Mixed reality (MR)
You already guessed it. As the name suggests, MR is a mix between VR and AR technology. And then again, there’s a bit of a twist to this. Because your whole reality will not entirely be replaced by a virtual one. You will stay in your current reality and will have the possibility to add layers of virtual realities (AR) to add objects or creatures while using VR.
An example of the use of MR is Microsoft’s Hololens. The goggles mostly put in place AR technology but there are still aspects of VR. These goggles are especially perfect for e-learning since it makes the user interact with the subjects they are learning. For instance, the Hololens follows the movement of your hands. It allows pinching and rotating movements, along with other hand motions.
Medicine and nursing students thrive with this tool, as they can study organs and the human systems with all kinds of detail! No more mess in the laboratory or heavy books, the Hololens can bring science to any place.
Whether VR, AR, or XR, what is undeniable is that these three technologies offer a lot of opportunities when it comes to e-learning. And combined with voice-over, you can create an amazing user experience!
How can my company benefit from this technology?
It may sound like the future, but this technology is here, and it can help your company and your e-learning projects. XR gives you the power to have any object of an e-learning subject in your hands, making it easier to investigate it and understand it. From car engines’ business to companies working with models and strategies, Mixed Reality can be implemented in all sorts of e-learning and corporate training.
High scalability and accessibility
Not only that, but the use of an XRS (Extended Reality System) would allow a high level of scalability and accessibility for the learners, keeping it updated in all accounts using the tool. That way, e-learners would be able to access content from anywhere, saving time from tedious manual updates.
Managers could also benefit from this, as they would have an insight into the results and performance of XR e-learning. This is because of an implemented system that provides access to dashboards and other relevant information in one platform, without the need to run several other programs. XRS is simple as that!
And, what is in for the learners?
Sound is crucial!
Asides from all the great assets that we have already covered regarding the tool, voice-overs can upgrade the basic technology to a totally immersive user experience. Sound is crucial to submerge oneself in an environment and finding the appropriate voice to fit your e-learning project is a key to using this technology successfully!
Why not try to implement this in your next corporate activity? Instead of providing a regular corporate training course, arrange a virtual gamification learning seminar through XR technology. This is a joyful and memorable experience for your employees that will ensure positive feedback and the assimilation of knowledge in an easier way. But don’t forget your headphones! As here in VoiceArchive we ensure that every promising e-learning is paired with the best voice.
Is your company looking for e-learning voice-overs?
Don’t be afraid to reach out to our sales experts and we will guide you through every step to incorporate sound into this experience.
From a personalized platform to a list of suitable voices, in your desired languages and fitting your price range, we’ll be happy to help.
Anna Sticken
Global Key Account Manager