Virtual Reality Isn’t Just for Entertainment—It’s Training the Workforce of the Future
Virtual reality is often associated with entertainment—but increasingly, it’s proving to be one of the most promising tools for learning by doing.
In my research I am exploring how VR-based training taps into the power of experiential learning—offering immersive, context-rich simulations that go far beyond what traditional training methods can deliver.
I recently published a journal article on this topic with Ina Kaleva and, in this blog, I discuss some of the main ideas.
Experiential learning
We retain more, learn faster, and build more relevant skills when we’re immersed in experiences—not just absorbing information. VR makes this possible at scale.
Real-world replication
VR enables people to engage with scenarios that reflect the actual complexity of their work environments—whether that’s practicing surgical techniques, navigating high-stakes negotiations, or responding to emergency situations.
Interpersonal skills
Beyond technical training, VR is also helping people build emotional intelligence, communication skills, and empathy—especially valuable in healthcare, business, and leadership roles.
Tailored to industry needs
From healthcare and construction to consulting and defence, VR can be adapted to provide training that is both highly practical and deeply interpersonal.
Rooted in cognitive theory
The effectiveness of VR training is backed by principles from experiential, situated, and social cognitive learning theories—each reinforcing the idea that context and interaction are central to lasting learning.
AI-driven adaptability
The integration of AI into VR systems makes it possible to personalise scenarios in real-time, respond to learner behaviour, and improve engagement and outcomes.
Yes, challenges remain—hardware access, cost, and user adoption, to name a few—but the direction is clear: VR is no longer a novelty. It’s a strategic investment in how we prepare people for complex, real-world work.
I believe VR offers a chance to fundamentally rethink workforce development—and the companies that figure this out early will have a major edge.
Future directions
As VR technology continues to evolve—especially with the integration of AI, biometric feedback, and more intuitive user interfaces—we’re likely to see a significant shift in how organisations approach workforce training and professional development.
Future applications could include highly personalised learning journeys that adapt in real time to user performance, simulations that combine technical and emotional intelligence training, and cross-industry VR platforms that foster collaboration in virtual spaces. This opens up exciting possibilities not only for enhancing individual performance, but also for reshaping organisational culture and building more empathetic, adaptable, and future-ready teams.
For companies willing to invest in tailored, evidence-based VR training solutions, the results could be transformative.
Find out more
Our full article was published in the Journal of Technology in Behavioral Science.
You can read the published article here
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