Abstract
This paper explores the growing use of virtual world simulations for training and education, both in the private and public sectors. We examine the rise of the importance of the rise of the “digital native” generation and the context of their growing comfort operating in online gaming and increasingly, in virtual worlds. We look at the growth of the video game and virtual world marketplaces and the demographics of players in these environments, which are largely populated by members of the digital native generation. We then examine how leading-edge organizations, from the U.S. Army to IBM to public agencies and universities training emergency responders are making use of virtual worlds for not just conducting simulations and training in cost and time-effective – not to mention safer – manners. We also look at emerging research that demonstrates how virtual worlds can be used to not develop field leadership and teamwork skills key to success in today’s organizations. We conclude with a discussion on the importance to fit the needs for today’s digital natives and the desires for improved training and education.
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Wyld, D.C. (2010). A Virtual Explosion or SNAFU is Always Better Than a Real One: Exploring the Use of Virtual Worlds for Simulation and Training…and Developing the Leaders of Tomorrow. In: Iskander, M., Kapila, V., Karim, M. (eds) Technological Developments in Education and Automation. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-90-481-3656-8_15
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-90-481-3656-8_15
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