Aspen ASCEND Cohort Trial New Ways of Learning

Aspen has partnered with LEVRA, to deliver Human Skill training to our apprentices though immersive learning experiences including virtual reality (VR), as part of our ASCEND program. The main aim of training is to deliver role-play scenarios for those in the Early Careers community, for them to learn effective communication skills.

This innovative way of delivering learning focuses on capturing the attention of visual learners and digital natives, to provide instant feedback in a safe environment which will improve inter-personal skills that are required in the workplace as part of their personal development.

The group of apprentices will be focusing on six topics in their workshops, these include:

• First Impressions
• Professional Behavior
• Managing Time and Priorities
• Working in a Team
• Active Listening
• Dealing with Senior Colleagues

Assessment will take place before and after the program to measure behavioral change and demonstrate development in the key areas covered.

Deven Patel, Head of Talent Attraction & Development, said “It’s great that we’re introducing innovative ways of learning at Aspen. Personal Development is a core focus area for us across all levels, and adapting training to ensure we are capturing different learning styles is part of that focus. I look forward to seeing the results.”

The apprentices all had positive feedback after the first session:

Maisy Arnold, Claims Apprentice, said “I found it a lot more interactive compared to other workshops. I was always engaged because it felt like I was having a conversation with a person, which meant I didn’t have the opportunity to switch off. The new style of learning was exciting and I’m looking forward to the other sessions we have.”

Richie Payne, Underwriting Apprentice, said “Giving the answers on the spot and as direct feedback felt beneficial to me learning. The virtual reality character mentioned feedback such as being more direct in communication, which is then something you can put into action instantly when going back to your desk.”

Tom Gudino-Resendiz, Claims Apprentice, said “It helps to make mistakes in an environment that won’t be costly in the business environment. The interactive elements made it feel like an almost real interaction. This type of learning meant that you could learn quickly, and also utilize your learnings instantly in the office afterwards.”