Simulated Experience for Real-World Skills: A Comparative Analysis
Through this series, we’ve discussed the value in simulated activities to enhance, train and hone skills. There are those that have disagreed with our approach – suggesting a stark difference between simulated experience and real-world skills. Some have argued that nothing beats hands-on experience gained in the field, while we don’t disagree, we also advocate for the value of simulated environments where mistakes can be made without consequence.
At UnleashU, we believe that simulated experiences are not just complementary to real-world skills—they are essential for developing them. By using advanced simulations, detailed knowledge sharing, and thorough documentation practices, we ensure that our learners are prepared to handle any challenge with confidence and competence. In this post, we explore how simulated experience enhances real-world skills and why it’s a cornerstone of our training approach.
The Power of Simulation: More Than Just Practice
Simulations are often viewed as a second-tier substitute for real-world experience, but this perspective misses the immense value that well-designed simulations can bring to IT training. At UnleashU, we see simulations as an opportunity to create controlled, repeatable scenarios where learners can develop their skills, test their knowledge, and learn from their mistakes—all in a safe, risk-free environment.
1. Repetition Without Risk:
We use this phrase at UnleashU quite a bit: “Drill for skills.” One of the greatest advantages of simulated experiences is the ability to repeat tasks and scenarios until understanding is achieved. In the real world, IT professionals may only encounter specific problems or challenges infrequently, meaning they have limited opportunities to practice their skills in those areas. Simulations allow learners to tackle these same problems repeatedly, refining their approach and deepening their understanding with each iteration.
For example, our team members don’t just update SSL certificates once and move on—they practice this task repeatedly in various simulated environments. This repetition ensures they are not only familiar with the process but also able to handle any complications that might arise during a real-world implementation.
2. Learning Through Doing: Building Muscle Memory
Simulations help build muscle memory, allowing learners to internalize processes and procedures through hands-on practice. This is crucial in high-pressure situations where the ability to act quickly and correctly can make all the difference. By engaging with simulated environments, our learners develop the instinctual responses needed to navigate complex systems and resolve issues effectively.
For instance, deploying Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) in a simulation provides a hands-on experience that no textbook can match. Learners get to understand the nuances of the deployment process, troubleshoot in real-time, and adjust their strategies based on immediate feedback—all of which contribute to a deeper, more practical understanding of the technology.
3. The Importance of Knowledge Sharing and Documentation:
At UnleashU, we don’t just stop at simulations. Knowledge sharing and thorough documentation are critical components of our approach, ensuring that every learning experience is maximized and can be referenced in the future. We believe in a culture of transparency and collective growth, where every lesson learned by an individual contributes to the knowledge base of the entire team.
Our simulations are meticulously documented, creating a repository of knowledge that can be accessed and utilized by anyone in the organization. We record every learner’s journey through the simulation process, capturing their actions, decisions, and outcomes in what we like to call “game-day footage.”
4. Game-Day Footage: A Tool for Continuous Improvement
Recording simulations provides invaluable insights into how learners approach problems and where they may struggle. This game-day footage allows us to review each learner’s performance in detail, offering personalized feedback and guidance to help them improve. By analyzing these recordings, we can identify common pitfalls, refine our training materials, and ensure that every learner is getting the most out of their training experience.
During feedback sessions, senior team members review the footage with the learner, discussing what went well, what could be improved, and how to apply these lessons to real-world scenarios. This process is similar to how athletes review game footage to enhance their performance—it's about understanding not just the outcome but the process that led there.
5. Building a Culture of Continuous Learning:
Our commitment to knowledge sharing and documentation extends beyond simulations. At UnleashU, we foster a culture of continuous learning where team members are encouraged to share their experiences, document their insights, and contribute to the collective growth of the organization. This practice not only enhances individual learning but also builds a robust organizational knowledge base that benefits everyone.
Every simulation, every feedback session, and every piece of documentation contributes to this culture. By documenting and sharing our experiences, we create a learning environment where knowledge is freely exchanged and continuously expanded. This collaborative approach ensures that our team is always learning, always improving, and always prepared for whatever comes next.
Why Simulated Experience Is Essential for Real-World Success:
Simulated experiences are not just about going through the motions—they are about preparing for the unpredictable, developing a deep understanding of complex systems, and building the confidence to handle real-world challenges. By combining simulations with rigorous documentation and knowledge sharing, we create a comprehensive training environment that equips our team with the skills and mindset they need to excel.
In the fast-paced world of IT, where new technologies and challenges emerge daily, the ability to adapt and learn quickly is crucial. Simulated experiences provide the perfect platform for this kind of dynamic learning, allowing our team to practice, refine, and master their skills in a controlled environment before applying them in the real world.
At UnleashU, we believe that the future of IT support and development lies in the integration of simulated experiences with real-world applications. By leveraging simulations, knowledge sharing, and game-day footage, we create a learning environment that is both comprehensive and effective. Our approach ensures that our team is not just prepared to face the challenges of today but is also equipped to adapt and thrive in the ever-evolving IT landscape of tomorrow.
