What is (and what is not) a Virtual Reality training simulator?

In the world of vocational training, Virtual Reality has opened up a new universe of possibilities. However, many people still label as ‘simulators’ content that does not meet the requirements to be considered as such, as not every interactive VR experience reaches the level to be considered an effective simulator for training.

So, what defines a true training simulator and why is it a unique tool for professional learning?

First of all, a training simulator is not 3D content with some interaction. While interactive 3D is visually appealing and useful in some contexts, a true training simulator involves much more than basic interaction.

For example, the simple manipulation of a 3D model, an exploded view of it or an exploded view of an exploded view or an exploded view is not sufficient for the user to acquire specific skills or to prepare him for real, complex tasks. A true simulator provides a complete hands-on experience, reproducing processes and techniques in detail.

In other cases, a 360° video with explanatory voiceovers may have been mistakenly considered as a training simulator. While 360° videos can be useful for exploring a space from a fixed point or for guiding users on a virtual tour, they do not provide the control, active participation and feedback system necessary for professional practice.

360º videos place the user in the role of a passive observer, while a training simulator allows the user to be the active protagonist in each stage of a process, interacting in detail and receiving immediate feedback on their performance.

A training simulator is an educational tool designed to facilitate the acquisition of technical skills and the practice of complex procedures in a safe VR environment. Its development involves the collaboration of specialised programmers, 3D artists who optimise visuals for high performance and UX/UI experts who ensure that the environment is intuitive and user-centric.

In addition, for the correct development of a training simulator, it is necessary to count on the collaboration of teachers, technologists, sector experts and leading companies in the different subjects, which allow the identification and definition of the processes to be virtualised.

The objective of a training simulator is for the user to learn through a step-by-step guided system, controlling his or her own learning pace and faithfully replicating real work scenarios and challenges. After all, learning by doing or the possibility of developing in first person the steps of a process facilitates the memory and assimilation of knowledge.

To fulfil its educational function, a VR simulator must integrate several specific features that differentiate it from other types of Virtual Reality content.

Presence is the feeling of actually being in a virtual environment, despite knowing that it is artificial.

To achieve this, a combination of sensory stimuli such as audio, visual and haptic feedback is needed to keep attention free from external distractions and generate an experience that feels natural and immersive.

The ability to move freely in the virtual environment and to interact with it in an intuitive way is essential.

The most advanced VR systems allow the user not only to turn their head (3 degrees of freedom) but also to move (6 degrees of freedom), which is essential in complex simulations where precision and control are necessary to replicate professional tasks.

An effective training simulator must adapt to the user’s responses and actions, providing instructions, feedback and adaptations in real time. This responsiveness is crucial in training, as it enables adaptive, user-centred learning.

Examples of dynamic content are instructions and warnings provided through graphical user interfaces or changes in the layout of different elements of the environment.

Narrative is key to the user’s understanding of the context and relevance of their actions. VR simulators can build narratives through scripts, sounds, commentary and visual content, which reinforce learning and help maintain focus on the task.

This narrative not only guides the user through each phase, but also creates an emotional context that facilitates knowledge retention.

A training simulator should provide a faithful reproduction of the working procedures and environment. This includes specific details, from the tools and equipment to how each step of the process is carried out.

Accuracy in the representation of the environment is essential for the user to feel that they are performing real and relevant tasks, which enhances the transferability of acquired skills.

Immediate feedback is crucial for hands-on learning. In a VR simulator, the user must be given clear indications of whether they are completing tasks correctly, as well as knowing where they can improve, thus achieving highly effective, incremental learning.

VR enables collaboration between users in the same virtual space, which is essential in many professions.

A VR training simulator can include collaborative scenarios in which users work together to solve problems, exchange knowledge and improve communication skills. This approach encourages teamwork and prepares users for real-life situations where collaboration is key.

In short, a Virtual Reality training simulator offers a unique learning experience that goes far beyond a simple interactive content or a 360º video. It is important to distinguish between a true training simulator, which faithfully recreates the environment and work tasks, and other interactive content which, while useful in some contexts, does not provide the same depth of learning.

By combining immersion, interaction, narrative and feedback, a realistic simulator allows users to acquire and hone practical skills in a virtual environment that closely mimics conditions in the world of work.

In this sense, our commitment to realism and precision in the development of training simulators allows us to offer a high-impact educational tool, capable of transforming vocational training and preparing users to successfully face the challenges of their sector.