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How instructors use augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to make professional training more inclusive
Quick Jump
- AR and VR training is more visually engaging than traditional theory-based training
- AR an VR training is more active than traditional theory-based training
- Instructors can modify AR and VR training challenge levels at the click of a button
- Full immersion means it’s easier to focus and not get distracted
- The pressure for trainees to “get it right” straight away is removed
There are many reasons trainees can struggle in a professional training space or in an educational environment. The best instructors use a toolkit of strategies to work with their trainees, to support them in their learning, and to guide them when they face barriers to learning.
Now, instructors have one of the most impactful and innovative new training strategies to add to their toolkit.
Augmented Reality (AR) training and Virtual Reality (VR) training have a proven record for being effective, accessible, and engaging for trainees.
In this blog, we speak to Dave – a UK MoD and Police Liaison – for his his insight and experiences in using AR and VR training.
Having served for approximately 25 years in the Armed Forces delivering training from initial recruit instruction through to specialist trade training across several high-profile military establishments, he has seen first-hand how technology can transform the way people learn.
“Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality are powerful tools for instructors,” he explains.
“They allow trainees to rehearse complex procedures, understand systems visually, and build confidence in a controlled environment before stepping into real-world scenarios.
“Used properly, these technologies do not replace good instruction. They enhance it to make training more accessible, repeatable and ultimately more effective.”
What are some reasons military trainees can struggle to learn?
There are various reasons an individual may need extra support to access training, but common barriers include:
A mild learning difficulty
Learning difficulties have nothing to do with intelligence or capability. Some people simply need information presented to them in a particular way for it to be effective. A common example is dyslexia. If a trainee finds reading difficult, or cannot process information from reading, they’ll need specific support to make learning accessible and inclusive.
Neurodivergence
This is another example of an information processing challenge. “Some of the most capable trainees I’ve worked with have learned best through practical and visual instruction rather than long classroom sessions,” Dave told us. “Good training recognises people process information differently, and instructors need a range of tools to ensure every trainee can engage with the material and perform at their best.” Expecting someone with ADHD to keep still and listen for hours at a time is not going to result in quality training. We have to find another way to make the training work for the trainee.
English as an additional language
- VR (Virtual Reality) puts you in a fully digital world.
- AR (Augmented Reality) adds digital info to the real world, like a heads-up display.
- MR (Mixed Reality) lets you interact with both. Think digital and real elements working together.
Each can be used in training, depending on what you’re preparing for.
Previous poor experiences in education
If trainees had a difficult time in formal education, for whatever reason, being back in a rigid classroom environment can be very counterproductive. In high-stress situations trainees can fail to cement vital information to memory and can find instructions impossible to follow. Keeping these trainees calm, focused, and engaged is an ongoing task until they can associate the learning environment with positivity and success.
1: Augmented reality and virtual reality training is more visually engaging than traditional theory-based training
Regardless of the specific challenge the trainee faces, AR and VR training levels the playing field for everyone. The inclusion of hyper-realistic and interactive visuals naturally supports a diverse range of learners.
Instructors can communicate key information to the trainees in an engaging way. It’s automatically more engaging than listening to a speaker and retaining information or reading texts and interpreting meaning. The visual nature of AR and VR means learners literally see and “experience” the training material rather than imagining it or memorising it.
PWC conducted a study of the effectiveness of virtual learning and found, “VR-learners were 4 times more focused during training than their e-learning peers and 1.5 times more focused than their classroom colleagues”.
AR and VR are immersive learning experiences meaning trainees use all their senses to access content materials. Trainees simply being supported with visual clues for learning rather than only written or verbal instructions makes learning more inclusive and effective. PWC reported trainees using VR completed training faster than their colleagues who didn’t use it, and they were more confident in their knowledge.
It’s not just about identifying where trainees may struggle,” explained Dave.
“It’s about finding practical ways to ensure everyone can access and absorb the learning. In my experience the most effective approach is blended training combining classroom instruction, practical activity and technologies such as AR and VR.
“As instructors we also need to monitor engagement and performance throughout the training so we can adjust our approach and make sure the material is actually being understood and retained.”
Dave, Anartes
2: AR and VR training is more active than traditional theory-based training and trainees retain more knowledge
Understanding the theory and foundations of a concept is essential for a trainee to fully grasp the practical functions. But, the longer trainees stay in the “theory” stage, the more difficult they may find it to concentrate, follow the content, or retain the knowledge.
AR and VR makes the theory parts of training more engaging. With interactive 3D renderings of equipment and processes VR and AR training supports trainees to move from the theory stage to the practical stage more quickly.
The sooner trainees can start applying their new knowledge practically, the better they’ll learn. With AR and VR, trainees can use headsets, glasses, and smart devices to support them as they perform tasks. Learning in this way means trainees are immediately building muscle memory and rehearsing essential knowledge.
Depending on the topic or the process, trainees can use AR/ VR as an intermediary support before being fully autonomous. Having additional instructions in your eyeline as they experience a training session means trainees are supported to do their best. Soon, with repetition, there will be no need for extra instructions because they’ll have developed the skills and instincts they need in their field
UKCPD, a leading UK professional training organisation, explains why practical knowledge is more beneficial for trainees:
Practical learning often allows us to retain information efficiently and for prolonged periods… [It] can generate a deeper understanding of a specific skill or subject. Learning from experience is often seen as a more powerful way to ingrain knowledge and develop abilities”.
3: Instructors can modify the challenge level of an AR or VR training session at the click of a button
The simplicity and adaptability of virtual training is what makes it most inclusive. If a trainee is finding a concept or a process difficult, the trainee has limitless options to support their learning:
- The trainee can easily access learning materials remotely to do extra learning on their own
- The instructor can amend what the trainee “sees” and how complex a task is, making it simpler at first and then building complexity when the trainee is ready
- The instructor can provide extra verbal instructions quietly, directly to the trainees’ headphones, until the trainee grows in confidence
- The trainee can work with peers to collaborate with learning and crowdsource solutions together
- The instructor can get precise data on trainees’ performance immediately, meaning they can reinstruct trainees and correct errors in the moment
- The instructor can set up tiny challenges, allowing the trainee to rehearse the elements they’re struggling with repeatedly, until the trainee has full capability
Likewise, the instructor can respond immediately to trainees who make swift progress and set them up on individual challenges to push their learning.
A study exploring using VR to support learners with autism from Science Direct concluded, “the data suggest that VR may support educational inclusion by allowing the personalisation of content and environments to accommodate individual student needs”.
“One of the biggest advantages of AR and VR is the flexibility it gives instructors when managing a mixed group of trainees.
“At any one time I might have one group consolidating their learning through a practical assessment, another repeating a task to improve their performance, and others progressing onto more advanced stages of the training.
“The technology allows trainees to work at the right pace for them while maintaining a consistent training standard. Repetition is essential in building competence, and these systems allow trainees to practise procedures multiple times in a controlled environment until the process becomes familiar and instinctive.
“As instructors we can monitor progress across the group, provide additional support where needed, and ensure every trainee builds the confidence required before moving on”
Dave, Anartes
4: The immersive nature of AR and VR training means it’s easier to focus and not get distracted
Trainees who use AR and VR as they learn report feeling more focused and less distracted than in traditional training environments.
PWC reported, “VR-trained learners were up to 4 times more focused during training than their e-learning peers and 1.5 times more focused than their classroom peers”.
There are multiple reasons for this, including:
- The ability for trainees to quicky apply knowledge practically
- The increased visual support which is more engaging and makes learning material more explicit
- The opportunities for trainees to work autonomously and at their own pace
But perhaps the most significant reason trainees can focus more with AR and VR training is because it literally blocks out outside distractions. Physically wearing the glasses and headphones, or using a simulator, fully immerses the trainee in a hyper-realistic environment. The accurate-to-real-life digital renderings or overlays along with the sounds and realistic movements mean the “practice” feels exactly like real-life missions.
When tasks should be independent, trainees using glasses and headphones or headsets can’t hear or see their fellow trainees. They also can’t be distracted by any other auditory or visual interruptions from outside the training space. Trainees can focus more deeply and for longer on the course material. Instructors can cover more material and train more effectively.
When tasks need to be collaborative, AR and VR training is easily scalable to group learning. With clearly defined roles, interactive technology, and hyper-realistic visuals, trainees are supported to work together effectively. By working as a team, trainees practice communication skills, problem solving strategies, and begin to bond.
5: The pressure for trainees to “get it right” straight away is removed with AR and VR training
Training with AR and VR reduces the pressure trainees face, which improves every part of the learning experience.
Using virtual technology means there’s more time and opportunity for trainees to access the course materials. As well as attending the structured sessions with the instructor, trainees can build on their learning independently. It’s easy to review the recordings of their training session remotely and with AR and VR devices available on base for trainees can practice in their downtime. Trainees don’t have to ‘ace’ the training session or put pressure on understanding everything in the training session. They can rehearse and deepen their knowledge over time.
Additionally, AR and VR training means trainees can safely fail. With the highly realistic, high quality digital environments trainees experience authentic training but with no risk to their health or wellbeing, and no risk to their teammates’ health or wellbeing. There’s no risk to equipment or limitations on accessing it. Trainees can learn, practice, make mistakes, and try again as many times as they need. Failing and improving are vital for building competency and resilience.
From the results of the PWC study, researchers concluded:
Practicing skills in VR offers the ability to try different paths to achieve better results. Learning something new involves being awkward, making mistakes, course-correcting and trying again. By giving people the opportunity to repeat a task in a natural way, practice builds confidence, which improves quality and helps to reduce mistakes.”
In summary…
AR and VR training makes learning more inclusive for all trainees. It’s more engaging, makes knowledge more memorable, and reduces distractions. Regardless of the individual learning challenges trainees might face, everyone can benefit from virtual training.
“At its core, good training is about building understanding, repetition and confidence,” Dave concludes.
“AR and VR give instructors the tools to create realistic environments where trainees can practise, make mistakes safely, and improve until the task becomes second nature.”
Want to try a demo and see how AR and VR training can transform your training sessions? Book a free demo with the Metaverse VR team today.
Interested to find out more?
Our team are ready to create your perfect training environment.
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6 ways Augmented Reality improves training for police, fire & rescue, and all Emergency Response teams
Quick jump:
1: Using AR training for Emergency Response teams is more efficient
2: Emergency Response teams using AR training learn faster and make fewer mistakes
4: AR training for Emergency Response is far more cost-effective than traditional training
5: Remote and multi-disciplinary collaboration is easy and straightforward with AR training
6: Using AR to train Emergency Response teams keeps training safer and more predictable
Effective training has never been more important for Emergency Response teams.
The risks they face in their careers are increasingly diverse and constantly evolving. From natural disasters such as floods and wildfires to urban disasters such as motorway pile ups and terror events, Emergency Response professionals must perform to an exceptional level in exceptional circumstances.
To do this, need the most up-to-date training. How else can they save lives, protect the public, and do their jobs to the highest standard?
In this blog, Liam Peachey, XR Team Lead at Metaverse VR, outlines why Augmented Reality (AR) training is the best training solution Emergency Response teams. Liam is passionate and knowledgeable about using technology to embrace training challenges. Through his job he sees firsthand the power and potential of AR transform the way we learn and train.
Liam explores 6 ways expert instructors and local authorities use AR technology to maximise the time, cost, and quality of Emergency Response training. Using the most up-to-date, effective training means trainees are equipped with the skills and knowledge they really need in the field.
What’s the difference between Augmented Reality Training (AR) and Virtual Reality Training (VR) for Emergency Response teams?
AR is an idea tool for training Emergency Response teams. Alongside existing training methods, AR is the next step fully preparing firefighters, police officers, and paramedics for the immense challenges they face in their jobs.
But what is AR training? And what’s the difference between VR and AR?
VR is a commonly used term. Typically, the public is familiar with for entertainment reasons, such as video games. Beyond entertainment, VR is an essential training tool because it’s totally immersive and highly complex. Using headsets and simulators trainees learn in hyper-accurate, digitally rendered environments. They are completely “transported” into the scenario.
An example of VR would be navy trainees operating a battleship through stormy seas while never leaving the classroom environment. The VR technology would replicate the ship’s bridge including the specific controls and equipment. The technology would allow the trainees to “feel” and “see” the stormy conditions and how the ship responds in the scenario.
AR uses much of the same technology as VR. However, instead of being totally immersive, AR overlays digital scenarios on to real-life images. Using glasses or a compatible tablet, trainees “see” important details or instructions on top of real objects.
An example would be using AR to include hyper-realistic imagery over props. A trainee paramedic might perform an emergency tracheotomy on a plastic medical-grade mannequin but with AR they “see” far more detail, accurate anatomy, and respond in-the-moment to the challenges which may occur in real life emergencies.
Read our expert blog ‘MR, VR or AR. Which one is best for you?’ more information about augmented reality and virtual reality.
1: Using AR training for Emergency Response teams is more efficient
Both initial career training and Continual Professional Development (CPD) must convey vital information, in an accessible way, in limited time.
Using AR ticks all of these boxes. In just an afternoon, trainees understand the theory of emergency response processes and get practical “hands-on” experience.
With a set of compatible smart glasses or using a compatible tablet or mobile device, trainees “perform” the processes with real-life digital overlays.
- Firefighters “see” different types of fires and experience tackling them
- Medics “see” a patient having a seizure and learn how to respond
- Police officers “see” a hostile individual and practice de-escalation using official protocol
The AR system scans and maps the real-life environment. It recognises real-life props or training devices, such as a mannequin or a car. It then anchors digital overlays, such as fire or movement, over the physical object. Through the glasses or device, trainees see the imagery with real-world precision.
Overlays examples include:
- Step-by-step instructions
- Live system diagnostics and alerts
- Visual markers or spatial annotations
- Remote support and real-time collaboration
In the moment, trainees are learning and responding to complex, “dangerous” scenarios, while never leaving the classroom.
2: Emergency Response teams using AR training learn faster and make fewer mistakes
AR directly helps trainees to improve in both skill acquisition and long-term knowledge retention.
Because it makes training more visual and accurate to “real life” (rather than theory based), AR means important information is more memorable. Its success is in the combination of real and virtual elements. For example, trainees use real instruments and equipment to interact with digital surroundings. Firefighters “put out fires” with real fire hoses and medics use real scalpels to perform emergency procedures.
AR also helps trainees to develop and trust their instincts and team skills. Instructors respond to the highly accurate data from AR to give detailed feedback to the trainee, helping them improve there and then. Results and progress are measurable and clear. Each training exercise can be repeated as many times as needed, until each trainee has consistent reaction times and are entirely confident in their role.
After using AR, trainees go into the field able to manage dangerous situations with experience, resilience, and muscle memory. See an example of AR and exactly how it works by booking a no-obligation free demonstration here.
“AR is proven to reduce error rates by up to 40% in field service operations”
HCL Tech
AR also helps trainees to develop and trust their instincts and team skills. Instructors respond to the highly accurate data from AR to give detailed feedback to the trainee, helping them improve there and then. Results and progress are measurable and clear. Each training exercise can be repeated as many times as needed, until each trainee has consistent reaction times and are entirely confident in their role.
After using AR, trainees go into the field able to manage dangerous situations with experience, resilience, and muscle memory. See an example of AR and exactly how it works by booking a no-obligation free demonstration here.
3: Instructors using AR to train Emergency Response adapt scenarios to increase or decrease challenge level
Since AR is digital, it is totally adaptable. As an Emergency Response training instructor, you dictate the precise scenario and details you’d like. The Metaverse digital artists, 3D modellers, and developers work with you to create the environment and events you need.
As everything is bespoke, you are positioned to get the best out of your trainees. Using AR data, instructors can respond to the trainees’ needs quickly and easily. Adapt the scenario to make it simpler or more complex, depending on what the trainee is ready for. Then, in the moment, provide further guidance and reiterate instructions to deepen trainees’ learning.
Every element of the design is in your control. With a simple click of a button, you can change the level of challenge or complexity in the scene. Start your trainees off on the simplest version of the scenario before adding more difficulty when they are ready. Once they have mastered a particular skill you can further test it in different environments, simulations, or conditions.
4: AR training for Emergency Response is far more cost-effective than traditional training
Balancing effecting training with budget constraints is an ongoing challenge for Emergency response leaders and trainers, local authority leaders, NHS managers, and decision makers in public safety.
AR is the solution. It’s a cost-effective way of training exceptional teams, without compromising training quality or safety standards.
There are many reasons AR is cheaper than traditional training models. As AR can be delivered remotely:
- You don’t need to hire specific locations, buildings, or sites
- You don’t need to book or use vital, expensive, or specialist equipment (which may be in demand from multiple departments
- There are no requirements for the team to travel to a specific location
- There are no accommodation costs for extended training scenarios
- Expert instructors from around the world can deliver training easily
Trainees remain on station in their actual workspace while using AR. The digital overlays enhance the everyday environment, making it interactive and effective. Find out how AR can transform your approach to Emergency Response training by booking a call here.
5: Remote and multi-disciplinary collaboration across Emergency Response teams is easy and straightforward with AR training
The most effective training comes from industry experts. Passing on hard-earned knowledge and experience prepares even the newest trainees for what they’ll face in their dangerous day jobs.
Getting the best trainers in front of the trainees that need them has historically been a logistical hurdle. Likewise, making the most of expertise from different but linked departments is a challenge. There are many reasons police, fire, and paramedics should train together, namely, mass casualty events or motorway pile ups, but orchestrating this is incredibly difficult.
AR solves these problems instantly. Wherever trainees are in the country, and wherever instructors are in the world, they all learn together remotely. The digital connectivity of AR allows for multi-disciplinary collaboration, and the necessary technology for interoperability is in-built.
Whether emergency response teams are collaborating in a training module led by a professor in crowd behaviour or they’re rehearsing a riot response, AR training is effective, scalable, and fully supported.
6: Using AR to train Emergency Response teams keeps training safer and more predictable
AR is significantly safer than tradition training methods, in multiple ways. It simulates highly dangerous situations. The simulations are accurate and authentic enough to fully prepare the trainees for the situations they’ll face but the very fact they’re simulations mean the trainees are always safe.
- No risk to physical safety
AR training happens in classrooms, on stations, and in safe environments. Trainees can’t experience injury, exposure, accidents, or other hazards when they’re constantly supervised and fully supported. They access the knowledge and experience they need digitally, keeping them physically safe. - No risk to equipment
Trainees only access specialist, expensive equipment when they are ready, after they have repeatedly practiced how to use it with AR. When trainees progress to use specialist equipment in real life they do so with live AR support and instructions. These approaches reduce the risk of misuse or costly mistakes. - No risk to team mates or crew
Building trust and resilience within a team takes time. In the field, these trusted relationships are essential. Using AR trainees begin to rely on each other and cement a positive working relationship while in total safety and in a controlled environment. - No risk to emotional safety
Stress, burnout, and psychological distress can occur in training scenarios, especially when trainees are put in situations they’re not ready for. Learning cannot happen when trainees’ wellbeing is suffering. By using AR trainees are kept safe, even when facing extremely challenging training scenarios.
Trainees move slowly through levels of training complexity as and when they’re ready. From theory to supported practice to independent competency, AR supports trainees at every stage of their professional education.
In summary, AR training is more efficient, more flexible, more effective, more collaborative, safer, and cheaper than current training approaches.
Test how effective your training modules are right now with our quick, insightful training quiz.
Answer just 8 questions and you’ll learn how prepared your teams are for the emerging threats and challenges they’ll face.
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MR, VR or AR.
Which one is best for you?
There’s a question we’re often asked by customers considering virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) or mixed reality (MR) for their team development.
Given these terms are often used interchangeably, it’s an understandable point of clarification.
As for the answer, the truth is – it depends. They each have distinct capabilities tailored to different training needs and performance goals.
So, let’s take a closer look at what sets them apart and how to choose the right fit for your team.
Virtual Reality: Total immersion for total preparation
When you choose VR, you choose a fully immersive experience.
Once the headset is on, teams step into expertly recreated, high-fidelity virtual environments where they can rehearse complex operations safely and repeatedly.
And because it’s completely virtual, it’s the ideal solution when training involves risk, remote locations or coordination between teams.
For example, aviation crews can simulate entire flight missions without downtime or fuel costs.
In the defence sector, operators can rehearse tactical manoeuvres in simulated combat environments, while freight or construction teams can gain hands-on experience inside cockpits before stepping on-board.
Best for:
High-risk, high-complexity team training and developmentBenefit:
Repeatable, measurable, and fully controllable
Studies show that VR learners retain 75% more information compared to traditional training methods, completing tasks up to 4x faster.
Assc. For Talent Development
Augmented Reality: Smarter decisions in the moment
Unlike VR, which immerses users in a completely virtual world, augmented reality integrates useful data directly onto real-world environments through a tablet, smart phone or smart glasses.
It’s ideal for situations where field-based support is required without disrupting the ongoing task.
For instance, engineers can receive step-by-step repair instructions in real-time or construction workers can view underground utilities projected on the ground.
Best for:
Maintenance, inspections, just-in-time supportBenefit:
Real-time assistance with no need to leave the work environment
AR is proven to reduce error rates by up to 40% in field service operations.
HCL Tech
Mixed Reality: The best of both worlds
Combining the power of VR and AR, mixed reality blends real-world spaces with digital elements you don’t just see – like AR – but can also interact with and react to.
In real terms, it’s training in a physical space enhanced with virtual recreations of the environments, systems or objects teams will need to master.
For example, defence teams can plan missions collaboratively using MR to overlay real-time updates and digital elements over a physical map.
Full scale simulators can also be used to replicate the real-world experience and give the user a truly hands-on, virtual experience.
In aviation, MR can blend cockpit layouts with virtual training scenarios, while construction teams can visualise building plans and detect clashes on-site before physical work begins.
Best for:
Collaborative planning, physical-digital fusionBenefit:
Real-time, interactive overlays in real environments
Studies have shown that MR boosts team collaboration, leading to a 30% reduction in reworks in the construction sector, while providing greater efficiency and faster decision-making.
Travancore Analytics
So, which is right for you?
It depends on your goals, environment and the user’s role:
Choose VR:
When safety, precision and repeatability are paramount, especially in high-risk environmentsChoose AR:
When you need to utilise real world systems in a digital environment- Choose MR:
When you require collaboration, spatial awareness and interactive training in real-world environments
Still not sure which is best for your needs?
We can help you explore the best fit for your team.
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