Learning and Training Using Sixth Sense Technology

By Shanna R. Teel, Contributing Editor

Picture this: a Web cam, mini-projector, and battery pack worn comfortably around your neck. This is a new, innovative technology developed by Pranav Mistry out of MIT called Immersive or Sixth Sense Technology that allows the user to have access to the World Wide Web while simultaneously interacting with the physical world.

Hard to picture? Here's an example: You go to the supermarket to pick up a few household items. As you browse the numerous cleaning products you wonder, "Which of these products are packaged with biodegradable materials?" It is likely that you will not spend the time to do a Google search on your iPhone or Blackberry as you stand in the aisle. But using this new sixth-sense technology would allow you to  scan the product(s) you are viewing and instantaneously view Web-based information about their features. This technology will allow users to interact with their physical world while learning from their virtual world. It makes information instantly accessible and integrates learning and development as a regular part of everyday activities. How great is that?

 

Although not ready for market, sixth-sense technology will add a new dimension to learning, both formal or informal. On an informal basis, end users will be able to ask questions about products, the physical world, nature, etc., and receive answers immediately. In formal training and development, this technology can be used in the T&D industry to cater to "the new learner." This new learner, sometimes referred to as  the "Net" generation learner, is an individual born and raised on technology who may not benefit or be comfortable learning from traditional teaching methods.

Although Pranav's Sixth Sense Technology is still in development, I believe it will have a wide-ranging target market both in industry and with everyday consumers. I'm excited to see how innovative technologies such as this will change the world of training and development.

Until next time,
Shanna

Shanna R. Teel is the founder and CEO of Dr. Shanna Teel & Company, Inc., a leadership and human capital management consulting firm. She has worked more than 15 years as a talent and performance management consultant, executive coach, and facilitator of adult learning.