Incorporating features found in the massively multiplayer World of Warcraft, we added the capabilities for defining and incorporating a single or multi-user quest based system for training objectives.

With time and location boundaries to consider, training access for the Defence Centre of Training Support (DCTS) personnel can be limited. Training within a virtual environment so that users can exchange ideas and have realistic discussions with each other to make optimum decisions would have been ideal, yet there was nothing to integrate it into DCTS’s Defense Learning Portal (DLP).

What we did:

Developed in collaboration with the Technology Based Training Research & Development Group at DCTS, PlayGen developed a multiuser, objective-based immersive training simulation system using open source. Incorporating features found in the massively multiplayer World of Warcraft, we added the capabilities for defining and incorporating a single or multi-user quest based system for training objectives.

The main aspects of the project include: investigating the capability to easily create immersive and interactive training using Open Source for delivering established key learning points and training objectives, knowledge transfer and raising in-house capabilities for trainers to make changes and additions to the virtual world autonomously.

Features of Open Source Virtual World include:

• Fully autonomous virtual characters capable of briefing and questioning players.
• Bespoke mini map of the location highlighting virtual and live players.
• Instant messaging and voice over IP option for players to talk to other players privately or in groups.
• The ability to show Microsoft PowerPoint and stream video in world as well as recording progress through SCORM.

In our ever-changing world, open source training programmes free up valuable time and costs but have the same excellent results as real world training facilities provide.

Benefits:

	Utilise open source technologies to deliver a training focused virtual world in a more cost effective and extendible solution.
	Author and deliver scenario based training for single and multiuser situations within a secure virtual world autonomously.
	Provide high fidelity photo-realistic virtual models of the building spaces and the characters within the Virtual World.
	Provide methods to record the trainees’ progress within using SCORM methodology.

Feedback:

“The Open Source Virtual DCTS project has enabled the TBT group to explore the boundaries of the possible of a virtual world and its integration within MoD IT infrastructure.  The project is also aimed at demonstrating and assessing the use of multi-player virtual world technology within military training and education.”

Lt Simon Coles RN of the DCTS

Contact us for more information on our OSVW platform