6 Advantages of Training Simulations in the Workplace

The benefits of simulations

Simulations, specifically, add some unique value to the education of employees.

• No-risk learning. Pilots learn to fly in flight simulators because failing doesn’t mean they crash a real plane. A simulation in the corporate world isn’t going to be life or death, but the benefit is the same. Learning from mistakes is possible when the mistake won’t result in dire consequences. Learners are free to try different problem-solving options and think through what worked and what didn’t. 
  
  
• Real-life experience. Simulations can mimic real scenarios that an employee could possibly find themselves experiencing during the course of their work. Learning from experience carries with it a deeper level of comprehension, than simply reading or hearing a lecture on the same content. Simulations better prepare workers for what they will face in the real-world experience of doing their job.
  
  
• Immediacy of feedback. The timely feedback causes learners to be more engaged and allows them to try a number of different strategies to determine what works. The feedback comes before it’s too late to change course. One of the most valuable aspects of getting immediate feedback is that it allows the learner to immediately apply what they are learning.
  
  
• Encourages cooperation and competition. Simulations can have a socially interactive component that is appealing to many. Introducing competition may be a natural motivator for some who are driven to try harder in order to stay ahead of their peers. Others, who aren’t as motivated by competing, may get a boost from feeling that they are part of a team that is working toward a common goal. They can also give a boost to someone who might be struggling.
  
  
• Story aspect increases engagement. Everyone enjoys a good story. A simulation that has a realistic story element that the learner can be immersed in will cause them to be more involved and invested in the activity, which leads to greater understanding and deeper learning. People retain more of what they have learned when they are enjoying themselves.
  
  
• Rewards are fun. A good simulation will have some sort of reward attached to successful completion of the stages, levels, or the whole learning activity. Everyone likes to be recognized for their positive behavior. It’s fun to be rewarded for a job well done. An employee who is having fun while they’re learning new skills has a higher chance of remembering what they have learned and being able to apply it to a real-life situation.

The value of simulations is being recognized in many areas of employee training. Well-designed simulations result in employees who are confident and prepared to have positive interactions with their coworkers, employers, and customers.