The Next Generation Learning Environment Using 3D & Virtual Gaming Principles in E-Learning THE VIRTUAL FRONTIER Edward Prentice III Centrax Corporation Chicago, IL David McGrath Grainger Chicago, IL

The Webinar will examine: Several virtual learning environments. How simulations and gaming techniques facilitate learning. How 3D animation and visualizations enhance learning programs. Design and technical considerations. Practical applications of 3D and virtual learning models. NOTE: All demos in this program were developed by Centrax. The Demo Links only work in the “ View Show” mode. THE VIRTUAL FRONTIER

What is the Virtual Frontier? It is not just a simulation or computer game. It is not corporate learning in the traditional sense. The Virtual Frontier is the next generation learning environment. It blends the disciplines of simulations, gaming elements and performance support. The future of e-learning will tap into the human spirit. It will challenge individuals and spark innovation. THE VIRTUAL FRONTIER

3D VISUALIZATION 3D Visualization is an effective tool for learning because individuals comprehend images much faster than blocks of text or simpler 2D images. Because interactivity is key to learning, 3D is often used to create immersive imagery that engages learners and allows them to effectively visualize and manipulate the subject matter.

EXAMPLES Presenting information in an interactive, visual format increases the understanding of challenging or complex material. 3D animation can be effectively used for process training… 3D Visualization Demo Link

EXAMPLES product training… 3D Visualization Demo Link

. EXAMPLES …and sales simulations. 3D Visualization Demo Link

EXAMPLES Exploration and Discovery Based E-Learning Programs Gaming techniques can be used to facilitate the learning experience– content can be transformed from page-turners into interactive multi-player games. The same techniques used to create children's video games can effectively be applied to adult learning programs. Demo Link

EXAMPLES Exploration and Discovery Based E-Learning Programs Gaming technology, combined with advanced 3D visualizations enables you to create realistic learning environments for various types of training: Safety & Compliance Sales & Customer Service Manufacturing - Equipment Repair - Product or End-User Training Scenario-Based Simulations (interacting with 3D characters)

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Needs Analysis Audience profile Interview subject matter experts Visit the real-life environment Where will your story begin? How will the learner enter the virtual environment? Is this how they begin the task in real life? Instructional Design & Content Development

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Instructional Design & Content Development Provide just enough detail to intrigue Engage the learner from the beginning Provide learners with the information and tools needed to solve the task or problem Set the stage for the scenario Will pedagogical agents such as storytellers or coaches be used?

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Multimedia Considerations Utilize as many learning styles (and engage as many senses) as possible Will you use audio, text, graphics – or perhaps a blend of all three? Combining graphics with audio improves learning and retention rates because both visual and phonetic processing are engaged. What types of graphics will be used? Do the graphics support and enhance the content? Are the graphics meaningful?

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Navigation Considerations Friendly, inviting interface Intuitive navigation Primary & Secondary Navigation Use “paths” as navigation in interactive scenarios

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Assessment Considerations Keep the concept simple Utilize the learner’s competitive nature Evaluation: What do you want to track? vs. What learning will take place by exploration? Consider variety of ways for tracking results

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Demo Link

TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS Delivery Considerations: Determine the lowest common denominator of end user systems. High-end gaming software requires advanced video hardware, high bandwidth, and fast processors to run properly. Web-based / CD: If web-based, the software may need to be tailored to run at slower access speeds ( unless all users have broadband connections). It is more efficient to deliver advanced video games via CD. Most advanced gaming software can run from a CD, while interactions and multi-player functions can run over the internet.

TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS Development Considerations: Development Tools: 3D Studio Max Photoshop Illustrator Various 3D object modeling programs Game Authoring Software: Flash Director Authorware Various C++ game engine compiler programs

TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS Development Considerations: Run Time Considerations: Web: Flash is the most common “game capable” plug-in available on most browsers today. Other authoring applications may require the downloading of plug-ins. CD: User should have an 8X drive or faster, 333 MHz or higher processor and an advanced video card.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Medical Training – 3D modeling is used to develop detailed models of the human body. These models can then be rotated and viewed from any angle. Demo Link

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Health & Fitness – 3D modeling and gaming principles are used to create realistic fitness simulations that enhance the experience of indoor exercise. Demo Link

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Mechanical Training – 3D modeling demonstrates how equipment components are assembled or configured.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Simulations for Transportation – 3D modeling features transportation scenarios that are difficult, dangerous or expensive to demonstrate. Demo Link

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Sales Simulations – 3D environments and characters enable learners to practice during virtual sales calls.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Soft Skills Simulations – 3D characters are often used in soft skill training, where the learner interacts with other virtual players in different scenarios. Demo Link

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Safety Training – 3D is effective in safety training where the student learns to work safely in a virtual ‘hazardous’ environment. Demo Link

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Equipment Training – 3D is used to represent equipment in the virtual environment that learners can interact with and manipulate. Demo Link

CONTACT INFORMATION Edward Prentice III Centrax Corporation 300 E. Randolph, Suite 2800 Chicago, IL (PH): Web Address: E-learning BLOG: