New and innovative technologies are revolutionising every industry, and the L&D sector is no different. In the last decade, consumer-based learning & development tech has skyrocketed. From Virtual Reality (VR) being widely used for gaming and immersive experiences to Augmented Reality (AR) being found in pubs and restaurants up and down the country in the form of QR codes.

Some sectors have embraced new technology more than others, with big brands using AR to make stories out of their packaging and Virgin Media creating holographic pizzerias in their marketing. Learning & development is a prime example of an industry that has welcomed new technology with open arms. Barriers to training were becoming more prevalent with the events of recent years causing more employees to work from home. As a result, companies of varying sizes are now hiring from a global pool of remote staff, meaning L&D has become increasingly more challenging to deliver.

Technology has been a fundamental part of Alchemist’s makeup since day one, using online resources, VR, AR, gamification and so many other tech-based delivery methods has meant that our programmes are much more accessible & inclusive to all members of the organisations we work with, worldwide.

Using AR & VR in L&D

VR and AR technology have been under development for over two decades now, however in recent years their popularity has soared. In terms of training delivery, these developments have made it possible to provide learners with an interactive experience. This improves retention by encouraging hands-on training, but also diminishes other distractions, like emails and texts, as it is wholly immersive.

Further to this, VR offers the chance for learners to deal with difficult circumstances in a safe setting that closely resembles reality. For example, an immersive session could prepare a learner for a challenging experience – such as having a difficult conversation with a member of staff – so that they are prepared when the situation occurs in their role. VR can also foster empathy by simulating what it’s like to experience discrimination or navigating the workplace with a disability.

One fundamental benefit to VR, and learning & development tech in general, is that multiple offices around the world can connect at the same time and interact with one another, building team cohesion even when they are thousands of miles apart.

Using Other Tech In Learning Programmes

Everyone is different, and because of this everyone learns in different ways. This is why a huge part of Alchemist’s discovery and onboarding process is research, to determine the right blend of learning for your company before delivery begins. We can use anything from our plethora of delivery methods, which include learning & development tech, to produce the very best programme for you.

One of the many tools Alchemist likes to use is gamification. Many people learn by doing and are able to absorb more information when they are engaged in a relevant activity. This is where gamification comes in. When trying to engage many people in various places across the world, the one language that everyone speaks is competition. This can be a hugely powerful tool to develop people through our learning journeys by allowing them to compete with one another, either as individuals or in their departments.

Using The Right Delivery Method

When considering the delivery method for your L&D programme, the blend of learning will determine how effective the programme is. Whilst tech is an amazing vehicle for training, it’s not the only one. Alchemist specialises in blended learning programmes where we utilise the very best of interactive and experiential delivery methods to ensure that our training stays with you forever.