Key Points
- CGI characters are computer-generated animated models that can be customized and repurposed for various training purposes.
- They enhance virtual reality (VR) training by providing interactive experiences that increase learner engagement and retention of skills.
- The use of CGI characters allows for easy updates to training programs and can safely illustrate safety risks in a controlled environment.
Table of Contents
What Are CGI Characters?
CGI characters are a form of computer-generated animated models. The characters’ interactivity with learners changes depending on the medium it is designed for (video games, VR training). CGI characters are created digitally and can be customized, edited, or repurposed at any time, for any purpose. They can be as simple as Microsoft’s Office Assistant Paperclip, or as complex as a movie character.
How Are CGI Characters Used For Training?
CGI characters can be used in a full VR environment to enhance learners’ experiences. These characters are customized to meet the needs of the training; they can be repurposed to be proxy avatars in the background, interactive characters that test the skills of your learners, or they can illustrate tasks for learners to observe.
When used properly, CGI characters can serve many purposes for your training activity:
- Represent customers or coworkers
- Serve as an activity narrator
- Be used to demonstrate an activity or job function
- Assist learners when stuck in an activity with directions or tips
- Fill out the virtual environment to be more realistic and train learners to ignore distractions
Benefits Of Using CGI Characters In Full VR Training
There are four major ways that CGI characters can enhance your VR training experience:
- CGI Characters Can Fill The Need For Humans – Using CGI characters in a VR training experience allows you to recreate human interactions, on-demand.
- CGI Characters Allow For Easy Training Program updates – If you need to update the information your characters say, how the character is dressed, or how the character looks, it can all be done without having to start from scratch.
- CGI Characters Can Increase Learner Engagement – CGI characters assist the learning process because they provide learners opportunities for active engagement.
- CGI Characters Can Safely Emphasize Safety Risks – VR training can use CGI characters and place learners in hazardous situations, instantly conveying to the learners what could happen if safety protocols are not followed.
