How do you assess the future development of three-dimensional learning programs?

Norbert Fritz: I have never heard that people don't want to have 3D learning; nearly everyone sees the benefit of using such programs. In the past, there was one determining factor: the price. Normally you have to pay much more money for a 3D program than for "normal" eLearning training.

Fortunately, e/c/s has found ways to offer a professional 3D application that is no more expensive than other programs. This advantage will increase the number of customers who opt for a 3D solution.

What is the main advantage of this form of learning?

Norbert Fritz: Nearly everyone has tried some computer games, and especially younger people are familiar with them. Educational games that involve 3D learning combine the fun of playing with the need to learn, but in a more satisfying and exciting way. Another aspect of games is the beneficial use of more senses, which helps the learner to understand and keep the new knowledge better and have fun at the same time.

Can you describe an actual example?

Norbert Fritz: e/c/s has developed a 3D virtual training store for one of the biggest retailers in the hotel, restaurant, and cafe ("horeca") branch worldwide. In times of cost cuts, it's much more sensible not to send people to real existing training stores but to use a normal internet browser for anytime / anywhere learning. The employee chooses a job role and has to fulfill tasks like driving a 3D lift truck or unpacking frozen goods. If he forgets, for example, to unpack them in time, they begin to defrost and water runs out of the packages.

Very important is that everything the learner does has a just-in-time impact on his surrounding, which makes him very motivated to fulfill his tasks correctly and on time.

Do you expect progress in technology to help make this kind of learning programs more cost efficient in the near future?

Norbert Fritz: As I mentioned before, the determining factor of higher costs can be eliminated by using new technologies that allow cost-efficient production of 3D learning surroundings. I'm sure the future will show us a development where a power user can stitch a 3D eLearning program for his colleagues in an easy and professional way. I'm happy to say that e/c/s is working on a brand-new solution in this area.

Norbert Fritz will debate in the section "Gaming, Informal Learning & MUVEs" on Thursday, 03 December 2009, 14:00 - 16:00, room "Tiergarten"