With a market size of USD 656.6 million (GBP 555.16 million) in 2018 and a projected reach of USD 13,098.2 million (GBP 11,074.66 million) by 2026, global virtual reality in education is on the rise.
Technological advancements in the workplace are inevitable. Each year new technology is introduced and adopted by consumers. Virtual reality was first recognised as a progression in the gaming industry. Gamers could become fully immersed in another world and have a temporary escape from reality. Consumer virtual reality headsets were first released by video game companies in the early-mid 1990s. As of recent, VR has started to replace traditional education training, and more specifically workplace safety training. It is believed that this will steer the future change in global training; giving users a more immersive, interactive and efficient experienced.
Market research suggests that learners feel 40% more confident when studying using VR compared to classroom training. This versatile an efficient technology provides users with a visual representation of possible scenerios they may be faced with in the real world. PwC found that VR learners are 275% more confident about applying soft skills learned in VR than classroom learners.
Benefits of VR Training
Learners engage their entire body, building situational awareness.
VR safety training helps employees learn the correct next steps to take.
VR training provides a safe environment which reduces incidents
Post training skills learnt through VR can be applied directly to the real world.
They can learn the correct procedures through trial and error.
VR learners complete their training four times faster than those in classrooms.
There has been a rise in VR Health and Safety training as of recent. Confined space, working at height and fire safety are some of the newest subjects to have a technological advancement. Virtual scenarios give the user the opportunity to recognise a plethora of hazards and respond accordingly. If individuals are aware of potential hazards and adopt safe working practices, they can control the risks and reduce the number of accidents and injuries.
Fire Extinguisher Hazards
Firefighting foam can cause water pollution and lead to the de-oxygenation of water. Extra care should be taken when using firefighting foam close to water sources or sensitive environmental areas. The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) advise that preventive action should be taken when possible to limit any impact. Henceforth, fire extinguisher virtual reality training is a sustainable alternative to traditional training. Doing so reduces the environmental impact of fire safety courses.
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