Virtual Training Labs: Connecting Learning To Real Life

There is a difference between learning and applying the knowledge to the real world. With the way virtual training labs are driving it,  it usually boils down to real-life proficiency. 

Some sectors and job skills can do with an annual tick in the box, but these are very few and far between. Critical functions, skills, and resources require additional training to remain at the top of mind. Training must be in-depth and hands-on to mirror real-life challenges as employers must engage learners and instil practical knowledge of how to use software applications through virtual means well beyond presentations and basic simulations. An ideal virtual training lab combines an immersive experience, active participation, and functional applications to ensure theoretical practice translates to material operations.

Real-life Flavor: the Virtual Lab’s Power

Virtual labs bring a technological advantage and embed it in a deep and seamless way with real-life aspects of a job. 

Software developers can learn an API or a programming language without setting up all the dependencies to avoid software debugging or troubleshooting without the risk of breaking the system. This makes a virtual lab a perfect place to test the code of new software. 

Imagine embracing the real-life aspects of a cloud application or technology platform. If these concepts are taught to learners in advance, they would be able to enjoy a smooth transition to using advanced technology.

Also Read: Best Virtual Online Training

All this is possible because virtual training labs bring radical advantages for both mentors and learners such as:

1. Recreates real-life challenges: Virtual training labs make coaches and instructors to infuse the course with as many real-life attributes as possible. The presence of new-age tools, gamified sessions, flexible components and modular design allows the course to bridge the gap between what-should-be and what-is. They give learners something to experiment with every time and, hence, teach them something that reflects a specific real-life competence. This happens when they learn by doing instead of simply observing.

2. LIVE monitoring: Virtual training labs can easily recreate real-life classroom-like sessions. The ability to monitor with over-the-shoulder visibility gives mentors a chance to guide learners and control student machines when necessary.

3. Much more than simulations: Virtual labs are more impactful than simulations because the element of customization while understanding specific job-gap increases the effectiveness of sessions. Utilizing the most advanced tools furthers the learners’  cognitive connection to the workplace environment. As a whole, transitioning is seamless and all boundaries are dissolved with the ideal virtual training session. Simulated courses can do that, but in a limited way. They are usually designed for a blanket industry or job description but fall short on composability by struggling with expectations on reusability. 

4. Learn without breaking things: It is impossible to master a skill without making a few mistakes. Virtual training labs provide a safe space to experiment and practice without the fear of breaking the production environment. Virtual labs give the learner the ability to make errors, learn from them and deliver on the job in a cost-effective way to employers.

Invest in Virtual. Harvest the Real

Most learners and mentors can agree the best lessons are learned when confronted with real-life consequences of their decisions and actions. This power can be cultivated in an inexpensive and scalable way by picking the right virtual lab. 

You have to get into the water someday if you’re learning to swim. You have to sit behind the wheel on a real road if you’re learning to drive. So why not learn practical skills or new software applications through virtual training for job preparation? 

Think about it.