By Danielle Rose, Interplay Learning
As the skilled trades continue to evolve, one thing remains constant: the need for efficient, hands-on training. Leveraging technology can bridge the gap between theory and practice, ultimately improving learning outcomes and workforce readiness. In this article, we’ll explore how simulation-based learning and virtual reality (VR) can enhance training programs for HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and other skilled trades, making them more accessible, safer, and more effective.
Seeing This Technology in Action
Since I started at Interplay Learning, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand how our simulation-based learning technology transforms the way people train for the skilled trades. Since we were founded in 2012, we’ve trained over 240,000 learners and developed more than 500 hours of unique content for critical trades like electrical, HVAC, and plumbing. In 2023 alone, we served over 90,000 learners, helped maintain a 96% pass rate for industry exams, and partnered with more than 1,800 employers and training programs.
I’ve worked closely with countless organizations, watching this technology dramatically improve training outcomes and workforce readiness. These experiences give me a deep understanding of why simulation-based learning has become such a crucial tool in skilled trades training, and I’m excited to share how it can benefit your programs and training plans.
Why Use Technology in Training?
Traditional training methods present unique challenges in addressing the full range of situations electricians face when training new employees. Access to equipment is frequently limited, making it difficult for every learner to get the hands-on practice they need. Safety concerns also arise, especially when dealing with newer learners in potentially hazardous environments. Additionally, traditional training can unintentionally lead to inconsistent experiences, where not every learner receives the same quality or depth of instruction.
By integrating technology like 3D simulations and virtual reality, you can provide learners with several additional benefits.
- Unlimited practice: Every learner gets the opportunity to practice scenarios as many times as needed, without the risks or constraints of live equipment
- Flexibility: Learners can practice on various types of equipment from anywhere, whether in the classroom, at home, or on the job site
- Cost-effective scaling: Simulations can help avoid the high costs associated with expanding lab space or acquiring more equipment
Do Simulations and Virtual Reality Actually Work?
The benefits of simulations and VR have been proven across various industries for years. In the medical field, VR training has helped surgeons reduce errors by six times, while in the military, soldiers trained through VR have been 2.5 times more successful in their missions. These technologies have consistently enhanced performance and safety by providing immersive, real-world scenarios for learners. It’s time for the skilled trades to take advantage of the same advancements, giving electricians access to cutting-edge tools that can revolutionize their training.
In any simulation-based training, it’s important to note that simulations don’t replace hands-on learning but rather serve as a crucial bridge between theory and practice. This “practice before practice” allows learners to gain confidence, ensuring they are safer and more effective when handling live equipment.
The Benefits of Simulation-Based Training
Integrating simulation-based training into electrician training and apprenticeship programs offers a range of significant advantages that go beyond traditional methods. These technologies provide an innovative way to enhance both the quality and efficiency of training, addressing common challenges while also preparing learners for the complexities of real-world work environments. By immersing learners in controlled, repeatable scenarios, simulations help bridge the gap between theory and hands-on practice, improving performance, safety, and confidence. Let’s explore the key benefits that make this technology a game-changer for training in the skilled trades.
Increased Access to Equipment
One of the key advantages of using Interplay Learning’s simulation-based training is the increased access to equipment. Rather than being restricted by the availability of physical tools or complex systems, every learner can virtually engage with a variety of equipment, no matter how advanced. For electricians, this means they can practice tasks like diagnosing faults in high-voltage systems or working on large-scale industrial electrical setups — scenarios that would be difficult and costly to replicate in a lab setting.
Enhanced Safety and Confidence
Enhanced safety and confidence are key benefits of simulation-based training. By allowing learners to practice virtually before working with real equipment, simulations help them build essential skills in a risk-free environment. This extra practice not only boosts their confidence but also ensures they are better prepared and more knowledgeable when it’s time to handle live tools and equipment. As a result, learners are safer and more effective in real-world settings, reducing the likelihood of errors or accidents on the job.
Simulation Benefits in Action
David Hawkins, training director at IUOE Local Union 94, has seen these benefits in action. He shared, “Interplay’s graphic approach gives members exposure and virtual access to equipment they don’t have, providing hands-on troubleshooting on refrigeration equipment in ‘real-world’ scenarios. This deeply enriches our traditional learning materials with visuals, significantly enhancing engagement, retention, and enjoyment in the learning process.” By using Interplay’s immersive training, David has seen more members pass their exams and get excited about their training experience.
How to Add VR and 3D Simulations to Your Program
Incorporating VR and simulations into your training program is simpler than you might think. Based on the dozens of organizations that I’ve seen evaluate and implement Interplay Learning, here are the steps you should take to add VR and simulations to your training programs.
Step 1: Find the Right Tool
Admittedly, I’m partial to Interplay Learning, but no matter what tool you choose, here are a few things you should consider. First, was the content created by subject matter experts? Interplay Learning works with a wide range of experts to ensure our content is accurate and up to date.
Second, look at what devices you need in order to access the content. Virtual reality is the most immersive option, but for greater flexibility look for a platform like Interplay that can be used on a wide range of devices such as desktop, laptop, tablet, phone, and of course, VR headset.
Finally, make sure your chosen tool can integrate with your American Technical Publishers Content Management System (ATP CMS). In my experience, Interplay’s ability to integrate has been key for making sure that trainees actually engage with the content because it’s so easy to access in a tool they already use.
Step 2: Map To Your Curriculum
Tools like Interplay can feel overwhelming at first because there is just so much content. Fortunately, Interplay has already mapped all of our content to IEC’s curriculum, so it is incredibly easy to start supplementing your training with our expert-created courses right away.
Step 3: Use Simulations to Supplement Your Program
Once you’ve selected your tool and you’ve mapped the content to your curriculum, now what? Integrating the new content into your training can look different depending on how you want to use it.
I’ve seen instructors use it as pre-work to have trainees gain exposure to a new topic before they come in for in-person instruction. Another option is to project the simulation onto a screen and work through it as a group or have trainees work together on a simulation in small groups. The knowledge checks are a great way to end in-person instruction time so you can easily see how well everyone grasped the concepts.
For more ideas, check out this free on-demand webinar all about how to use simulations in a classroom setting.
Case Studies: Simulation-Based Learning in Action
While we strongly believe in the power of Interplay Learning, it’s always helpful to hear from other people who are using the platform. I wanted to call out a few benefits that current Interplay Learning users really love.
For example, not only is Interplay engaging and effective, it’s available in both English and Spanish, so you can make your training more accessible to your learners. At El Centro Educativo Latino, they have seen the power of having Interplay content in Spanish. Carlos Cotto, director of El Centro Educativo Latino, shared, “This partnership with Interplay Learning is a significant step forward in providing our students with courses that offer the best cutting-edge 3D simulation and VR training in their native language. This ensures they are industry-certified and prepared for the demands of rewarding careers.”
Interplay Learning users also appreciate the safety element of virtual learning. Working with live electricity as a new learner can be stressful and dangerous. By starting in a virtual environment, trainees tend to be more relaxed and build confidence faster. Not only does this benefit everyone’s safety, but David Hawkins from IUOE Local 94 pointed out it has other benefits. He said, “Interplay’s interactive simulations help simulate real-world scenarios, allowing members to safely practice essential tasks and procedures they may encounter on the job. This hands-on experience builds confidence and competence, leading to higher success rates on the exam.”
Conclusion: The Future of Training in the Skilled Trades
Simulation-based learning and virtual reality are revolutionizing the way we train for the skilled trades. By providing a safe, flexible, and scalable approach, these technologies are ensuring that learners are better prepared for the demands of their future careers. As the field continues to evolve, embracing these tools will help training programs stay ahead of the curve, driving better outcomes both in the classroom and on the job site.
I’d love to share more with anyone who is interested in Interplay Learning’s tools. My contact information is below. Let’s chat!
Danielle Rose is a senior account executive for Workforce Development at Interplay Learning, providing local, state, national, and international organizations the opportunity to excel using leading simulation-based training technology to support at all stages of their career journey in the trades. Scheduled to speak at SPARK 2024, Danielle can be reached at drose@interplaylearning.com or 781.361.9883.