Using 3D Environments for Soft-Skills Training
3D OpenSim Environments offer the most effective platform for remote training, enabling experiential, interpersonal, active and interactive learning for both asynchronous (self-paced) and synchronous (instructor-led) learning events. In 3D, learners participate in discussions and topic-related activities that are dynamic, intriguing, fun (and sometimes funny) for learning that sticks as they use what they’re learning in the moment. Join us to see an overview of some ways we have designed and developed interactive training on topics such as leadership, teamwork, effective feedback, sexual harassment, and change management to name a few.
Speakers
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Bruce Gross / Cooper Swizzle (Poster Booth #13)Bruce became drawn to 3D Virtual Immersive Environments for training after being introduced to them at a professional association meeting for trainers. Bruce realized they created opportunities for both synchronous and asynchronous trainings for learners, and offered a very cost-effective solution for companies utilizing them. He realized that 3D environments enabled better engagement for learners, and began implementing use of 3D Environments as replacements for PowerPoint slides in webinars (where he had attendees watch via the webinar screen as he explored the topics in the 3D world). And he was able to convince the company leadership to try a pilot program using 3D worlds for training as a substitute for the expensive face-to-face, week-long training marathons that had been a staple of the company leadership development.
After completing the highly successful pilot 3D leadership training series, he was able to continue and expand the 3D course offerings and subsequently ran a 5-year 3D-based training program before retiring from the company. Holding certifications in DDI®️, Forte®️, and 3D Virtual Worlds from the University of Washington (2012), Bruce brings a broad spectrum of experience in training and enjoys using and sharing knowledge gained from his 15+plus years of training experience.
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Carla Kincard-Yoshikawa (Poster Booth #13)Carla Kincaid-Yoshikawa has worked as an Organization Development and Training Consultant for many years. Working in a wide range of industries in the private, public and non-profit sectors, she has designed, developed, and facilitated training programs on a wide array of topics including leadership development, strategic planning, change management, software navigation, new hire orientation, sexual harassment, and stress management. A deep curiosity about how people learn, change and grow has created a core resource for her ongoing work in Learning and Development.
She became interested in the use of 3D platforms after her son introduced her to 3D games as she recuperated from an injury. She saw them as powerful tools with significant capabilities that would enhance online/remote learning and began exploring how to use them as part of a comprehensive blended learning solution. Carla continues to use many technologies in her work, relying on skills developed creating and facilitating face-to-face training, as well as self-paced e-learnings and traditional remote learning (e.g., Zoom, aka webinars) to design effective learning
