Virtual Reality for Conflict Resolution Training in Diverse Teams

Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR) simulations in training employees for conflict resolution, particularly within culturally diverse teams. Modern organisational structures in globalised world that incorporate a diverse workforce and an increasing occurrence of heterogeneity, where simple misunderstandings arising from disparities of communication and cultural differences sparks intelligence of work-related conflicts, it becomes imperative for employees to be trained in methods of conflict management. Through the use of the technology, VR offers an experiential learning process that presents employees with actual solutions to conflicts within a simulated environment that allows rehearsals. This study examine the effectiveness of the VR training, to improve general interaction, understanding and cooperation with different category of workers. Participants’ feedback was obtained, and case study of Askari Bank was used to extract the results of the study. The outcome received discloses that the VR versions enhance participants’ conflict-solving abilities, raise organizational culture awareness, and encourage listening. However, drawbacks, including technology access, learning curves at the start and costs, were established as limitations. However, the study shows that VR is indeed effective in crossing cultural barriers and can act as a practical tool to teach conflicts resolutions in multicultural working teams. Suggestions for the use of VR for designing and implementing its programmes in the workplace are given, focusing on the potential of this technology in the creation of a diverse work environment and multinational population.