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RESEARCH, ANALYSIS & TRENDS

Why Metaverse mixed-reality learning

modalities will be a business future-

proofing game-changer

The term “Metaverse” is not only finding its way While global industry at large is still in the learning,
into everyday exchanges across the web, pop planning and development stage of the Metaverse
culture and mainstream news media discourse, technology life cycle, these immersive technologies—
but also into closed-door corporate discussions along with artificial intelligence (AI)—are already nota-
as industries ruminate on if—and how—to be an bly impacting one business area in particular, namely
early adopter of this modality. This corporate e-skills training and development.
understanding it represents a seismic shift that
will challenge technological and cultural The economic impact driven by this particular applica-
paradigms. tion cannot be overstated. In fact, forecasts indicate
that fully 23 million jobs will be impacted by VR and AR
The term Metaverse is broad, encompassing several by 2030, potentially boosting the global economy by
areas, and carries with it a variety of definitions that are US$1.92 (£1.4) trillion. Why? One simple reason re-
largely based on the intended application. One prime volves around the idea that immersive technologies like
description includes 3D virtual worlds that are focused these, applied in the Metaverse environment, minimize
on social connection, which are linked together to fur- the disconnect between theory and practice.
ther the perception of a virtual universe. It is widely re-
garded as the next iteration of the world wide web, as “Metaverse mixed-reality leaning experiences represent
well as a term of reference for the digital spaces made disruptive innovation that can significantly optimize
more realistic and relatable by the use of augmented training, development and real learning,” says Ed Bel-
reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and extended reality tran, CEO of Fierce Conversations—a global leader-
(XR). ship development company that’s pioneering new e-
training and communication paradigms. “With compa-

6 March 2022: Content Marketing