Introduction:
Welcome to the Learn and Shift Podcast, where we explore the ever-evolving landscape of education. In this episode, we had the privilege of conversing with Wybren, a trailblazer in the realm of education. He is the founder of MetaSkills, a visionary company that is reshaping the way we approach learning and development. Join us as we delve into the exciting world of immersive learning, AI, and the future of education.
From International Business to EdTech Pioneer:
Wybren, at 32 years old, has already made a substantial impact in the field of education. His journey commenced with a background in international business, with his studies taking place at Erasmus University. Subsequently, he spent six years at the Boston Consulting Group, accumulating invaluable experience both in Amsterdam and Johannesburg.
However, three years ago, Wybren embarked on a career pivot. He set out on a mission to teach himself coding, dedicating five days a week to immersive online resources. It was an intensive journey that eventually led him to an incredible intersection of coding and education.
The Emergence of MetaSkills:
Wybren's innovative spirit and unwavering determination brought forth MetaSkills, an edtech scale-up that is revolutionizing corporate training. MetaSkills isn't merely another edtech company; it's pioneering a paradigm shift in the way we approach skill development and training through immersive experiences.
One of MetaSkills' primary objectives is to make VR-based training more accessible, cost-effective, and adaptable to various learning needs. The initial hurdle lay in the high costs associated with developing VR content, which often demanded extensive coding and customization. Wybren and his team decided to rewrite this narrative.
The Power of "PowerPoint for VR":
Wybren introduced a groundbreaking concept - "PowerPoint for VR." Rather than relying on intricate coding and protracted development cycles, MetaSkills devised a user-friendly platform that facilitates the swift creation of VR training content. This innovation drastically reduces development time and costs, democratizing immersive learning.
The Role of AI:
What sets MetaSkills apart is its integration of AI, specifically GPT-3.5, into their training platform. This integration addresses a critical limitation of VR-based training: the rigidity of decision trees. In the past, learners had limited choices and interactions within VR environments. With AI, conversations become dynamic, mirroring real-world interactions.
AI avatars, powered by GPT-3.5, engage learners in authentic, unscripted conversations. This integration offers learners the freedom to respond naturally and practice their communication skills effectively. The cost-effectiveness of AI avatars also makes immersive learning more accessible to a broader audience.
Customization and Adaptation:
MetaSkills recognizes that one-size-fits-all training doesn't suffice. To address this, they've developed a platform that empowers companies to tailor training experiences to their specific requirements. Users can define the personality of AI characters, the context of conversations, and even the conversational style.
The Future of Learning: Wybren envisions a future where immersive learning experiences are highly personalized. Learners will have the flexibility to practice and refine their skills in a virtual world tailored to their needs. This approach will complement traditional training methods, allowing individuals to hone their abilities anytime, anywhere.
Conclusion:
Wybren's journey, from international business to the forefront of edtech, exemplifies the transformative power of innovation and dedication. MetaSkills is not just changing how we learn; it's opening doors to a future where personalized, immersive learning experiences are accessible to all. The fusion of VR, AI, and customization is reshaping education, promising a more dynamic and effective learning journey for everyone.
