Nowadays video is relatively cheap  and  easy to produce. Audiences are quite forgiving when comes to the quality of videos depending on the context in which they are delivered. Perfect training videos shot with high quality cameras and experienced actors are no longer a necessity. Armed with an iPhone and Final Cut Pro, many savvy IDs can produce short training videos almost on the fly.  This is an exciting moment in learning as we strive to be faster and more effective. With that said, I also think video has lost some of its luster for learners. The sheer novelty of video used to get the learners attention, now it is expected. That’s what keeps me searching for better ways to engage and enhance the learner’s experience. I often look outside the Learning industry to see what innovators, artists, and scholars are doing with media technology. Recently I found inspiration from the Sundance Film Festival.

At this year’s New Frontiers experience several artists presented immersive and virtual reality films. The unique thing about the films is that they are about real world events and experiences such as the war in Syria. I can only imagine the future applications of this in the news and entertainment videos of the future… but what about the standard diversity training video. Can immersive video experiences help employees empathize with the experiences of their colleagues?

I am excited to see what’s to come in this space. I look forward to leaving my eLearning simulations behind for dynamic immersive experiences. What do you think? Is this weird science just for fun? Tweet me @imanimance and share your thoughts.