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Practice makes perfect: It's an old axiom that still holds true. If you do something repeatedly with purpose, chances are likely that you'll improve. Sometimes video games can be an important part of that learning and improving process. Now that virtual reality tech is growing in popularity, so too will new ways to use it.
When I was growing up, using video games as a teaching tool was relatively new concept. I can remember in first grade the class will go to the computer lab where we would play a variety of educational games that top things like math science and reading comprehension. As a child I remember enjoying these experiences because I saw them only as games. They made the learning process enjoyable and so I was excited at any and every opportunity I had to play them. My experience isn't unique. Gamification is an effective teaching method that introduces game mechanisms and rewards to the learning process - but it's just the beginning.
The next frontier of game-based learning experiences is represented by virtual reality. This is once again technology that has been and will be adapted for use outside of the obvious application. It's not only entertainment and virtual reality can be used to teach students, athletes, and professionals of all stripes different valuable skills. While virtual reality isn't gamification per se, it can be used for similar educational means. Simulations are not a new concept - you can find simulators in golfing, boxing, and many other activities. The US military has long relied on simulations of emergency and combat situations to teach their personnel how to react in real life. Then wargames reinforce the simulations by having military personnel go through the motions. Doctors even use virtual reality to train as well as more traditional simulations.
Virtual reality is a combination of the two: 3-D simulation and physical movement. It's not limited solely to the military however. There's a long history of technology being adapted to coach athletes. Humanity is constantly devising new technology to help shape our future. There are always new programs, devices, and applications being released that will be utilized in a variety of different ways.
For decades athletic coaches have touted the importance of visualization. Mental practice can help prepare for success, regardless of what sport (or skill) you're practicing. Some studies indicate that mental practice can be nearly as effective as physical practice: you can gain mental strength from using your mind. The brain patterns activated when imagining that you're participating in the activity are similar to actually doing it, and you are mentally benefited from both. Virtual reality can be a combination of sorts. The virtual world you're interacting with can be an immersive experience. Building this kind of self-confidence through practice is a positive way to affirm your abilities and rehearse for the day when you'll need to put them to use. It's the opportunity to safely learn and practice from anywhere in the world.
Imagine it's winter, very cold, you like video games, and obviously don't want to go outside. You could learn how to paint or practice your backswing from the comfort of your own home. What better way to escape from the cold and get a little escapism in your life than to put that trusty virtual reality headset on?