Why does the 3-D ETC immersive video training approach work?

The immersive 3-D video experience incorporates elements of psychology and behavioral science into a scenario-based drama viewed in an immersive stereoscopic environment that creates a "nearly real" experience. Positive safety, health and other behavior-related messages are delivered in a manner that produces a significant and lasting change in participant attitudes and motivates them to take ownership of, and accountability for, their personal choices and induces intrinsic motivation which is a pillar of adult learning.

How much does 3D immersive video training cost?

The most frequent comment we hear when people guess the cost to produce and deliver 3D immersive training is “It Looks Expensive”. The good news is that the cost is surprisingly modest as compared to custom simulators and other Virtual Reality training tools. Although most every project varies in scope and cost, there are some fairly simple rules-of-thumb we use for providing estimates to our customers.

For example, our full service, onsite delivery option is roughly $60 per participant, depending on how many people you have to train. The cost for Train-the-trainer and 3D video licensing if you choose to deliver the training on your own are generally about half the cost of 3D ETC delivered training. Equipment rental, lease, purchase prices vary drastically depending on your needs. The cost to produce a custom 3D video has a minimum cost of $35k, but is roughly $3,500 per finished minute, but that cost can vary substantially depending on the script, number of actors, location, props, etc. needed to produce the video.

Is there scientific support for 3-D ETC’s approach to behavioral change?

Yes. There is significant research that supports the effectiveness of 3D video in relation to memory retention and immersion as it relates to learning. 3-D ETC is also conducting academic studies on the effectiveness of 3D video combined with immersion. Our approach is also supported in part by Ohio State Professor Edgar Dale and his research on the relation of “Cone of Learning” model. Dale demonstrated that the more senses engaged in any experience the deeper and longer lasting the memory. In the learning continuum, the least memorable experiences, with a 10% retention rate, are verbal messages acquired through reading, listening and looking at still images. Traditional videos, movies, exhibits and television only increase the retention level to 50%.

Dale’s research has shown that to maximize message retention and change attitudes and behaviors, learners must experience a simulation that comes as close to real-life as possible. Our level of involvement determines what we remember and how we respond – in other words, experience facilitates change.

3-D ETC’s stereoscopic video emulates the perception of depth experienced by human binocular vision while binaural audio realistically captures not only the experience of sound but the vibrations felt by the sound waves. Combined, these technologies closely mimic a real-life experience, which according to the Dale model is the most effective learning environment.

For further information, download Utilizing 3D Immersive Safety Training to Achieve Breakthrough Behavior Change

How does 3-D ETC training differ from traditional video training?

The tools employed by 3-D ETC are designed to simulate how we experience reality. Because vision is our dominant sense, what we see and take in during an experience becomes our point of reference and what we tend to remember and believe. This helps internalize learning, which is crucial to any sustained behavior change. Captured with two cameras and delivered to the viewer in a stereoscopic viewing environment, 3-D video emulates human sight. This creates stereopsis or “whole brain activity.” Two-dimensional video does not.

Developed by a team of psychologists and experienced audio engineers, 3-D ETC's binaural audio emulates human hearing, increasing dimensionality and spatial imaging. Binaural sounds stimulate feelings and heighten emotional awareness so that training participants have the experience of being present.

Delivery through head-mounted displays creates isolation from distractions and focuses attention solely on the message. These tools flip employees' experience of locus of control from external to internal, from believing they cannot affect their environment to understanding that they are in control of what happens to them. Viewing of traditional video training does not provide the same effect or have the same impact.

What results can be expected in reduction of lost-time injuries when 3-D ETC programs are used?

Reductions in lost-time injury rates vary among organizations, depending on a number of factors including what level of customization and which 3-D ETC training delivery option is selected. What is certain is that all clients have been impressed with the quality and amount of information 3-D ETC programs impart in a comparatively short time. 3-D ETC is also passionate about on-site follow-up, not only to reinforce the training message but also to analyze and validate program effectiveness based on company statistics. 3-D ETC's goal is to be able to project a prospective client’s return on investment as well as to maximize it.

A case in point: Following a FY 2007 program intervention for a 3-D ETC client in an industrial setting, days lost due to injuries occurring both on and off the job decreased by more than 71% compared to the prior two years, while injury severity, as measured by days lost per recordable injury, dropped by 64%. ROI, based upon calculated cost data, exceeded 840% in the first year after program delivery, with long-term ROI estimated to achieve over 2000%.

Are results achieved by 3-D ETC programs sustainable over time?

Yes. 3-D ETC's new patent-pending technique has been proven to address the typical barriers associated with sustained behavior change. This proprietary immersion approach to employee training provides state-of-the-art 3-D stereoscopic video and binaural audio, delivered through head-mounted displays, to fully engage and impact employees’ senses on a “gut” or experiential level. This creates a durable foundation for a lifetime of good safety decisions.

A case in point: The lost time case rate at the Defense Logistics Agency DDC Distribution Depot dropped from 3.98 in FY 2005 to 1.22 in FY 2006. In 2007 - 2009, without further 3-D ETC training, the case rate dropped to 1.00, a reduction of nearly 75% from the baseline year. The continued benefit demonstrates both the magnitude and the duration of the 3-D ETC program’s impact.

Who are some of 3-D ETC's largest clients?

Satisfied clients include the Department of Defense, Anniston Army Depot, the Defense Logistics Agency, Air Force Materiel Command, Pentagon Reservation, as well as commercial clients such as Ford Motor Company, Chrysler LLC, Frito Lay North America and Dow Chemical. To date, 3-D ETC has provided training for over 50,000 employees in these and other organizations.

Does 3-D ETC training work equally as well for smaller organizations?

Yes. The tools employed by 3-D ETC closely recreate how we experience and internalize learning, which is crucial to any sustained behavior change. This must occur at the individual level so size of the organization or number of employees is not a criterion for success.

Are there some industries for which 3-D ETC training is more successful than others?

3-D ETC has worked equally successfully with government agencies and organizations, as well as both publicly and privately held companies, across a broad spectrum of industries. 3-D ETC offers customization based not only on an industry but also on the particular organization for which the training content is developed.

How many individuals have experienced 3-D ETC safety training programs?

To date, 3-D ETC has provided training for over 50,000 employees in both the public and private sectors.

Is program customization an option?

Every program can be customized depending on the diverse needs of each customer. 3-D ETC has a growing line of (off the shelf) 3-D programs that, with minor modifications, are suitable for most any customer. Visuals can be modified to represent an authentic representation of most any work environment, however, the more customized the experience is in terms of place and time – even as to what the actors wear, how they speak, what kind of equipment they are using – the more likely participants are to relate to it. When possible, it’s ideal to create a custom program from scratch.

How does the customization process work?

Customization of a 3D training video begins with an analysis of the client’s goals and understanding of the training need. 3-D ETC then creates a storyline and determines how to present it in the most compelling and cost-effective way. The client reviews and approves the project in storyboard form. The producer visits the workplace and works with the client to develop a tight, non-disruptive filming schedule. Actors are hired for speaking parts and extras are recruited as needed. Once filming is completed, editing begins. Within the agreed-upon time frame, 3-D ETC returns with the finished program for presentation of the behavior-changing training experience.

What program delivery options are available?

It is 3-D ETC's goal to tailor program delivery to best fit each client’s specific needs. Options range from full-service, on-site classroom delivery, led by certified facilitators and overseen by a dedicated 3-D ETC project manager who coordinates every aspect of on-site delivery, to a train-the-trainer classroom model, to a web-based delivery model for remote sites or on-demand training requirements.

What hardware, software or other equipment is required to view the 3-D video training?

When 3-D ETC's full-service on-site classroom delivery option is selected, a 3-D video server and cabled or wireless network video distribution system is provided and set up on location at the client site. From one to fifty (or more if needed) wearable immersive video displays (WIVD) are provided to meet your particular needs. For on-site classroom delivery, 3-D ETC will work within the limits of your shift schedule to accommodate your entire workforce.

Clients who select the train-the-trainer classroom delivery option may rent, lease or purchase a 3D immersive video delivery system. 3-D ETC hardware can be custom fitted for client needs and can accommodate most any group size.

The web-based delivery model is designed to operate from a standard PC or Mac, but requires that the client rents, leases or purchases a 3-D wearable immersive video display from 3-D ETC.

Are there other components or services that make up the 3-D ETC training program?

Yes. 3-D ETC's premium level full-service, on-site classroom delivery training option offers a number of supplementary materials and services that further reinforce and guarantee the success of the training. Full-service programs are led by 3-D ETC’s certified facilitators and are overseen by a dedicated 3-D ETC project manager who coordinates every aspect of on-site delivery. In addition to coordinating efforts with key client staff such as Safety and HR Directors and medical and occupational health staff, the project manager can develop adjunct program materials for special audiences (i.e. low literacy, teens, disabled, etc.), and will develop both Pre- and Post-Program Promotional Campaign materials, provide take-home reinforcement 3-D DVD videos that participants can share with families, and conduct telephone follow-up interviews with participants as part of the ongoing support and analysis process.