New technologies such as Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) offer new possibilities for training of interpersonal skills: learn new skills from your avatar-self or learn in an environment individually tailored to your acceptable stress level.
VIBES – VIrtual reality and Biomarkers’ Effects on Skills training is a research project funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF – Sinergia). This project is conducted , Prof Marianne Schmid Mast (University of Lausanne – UNIL)and Prof Carmen Sandi (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne – EPFL). It aims to test how IVR, including the use of avatar-self (i.e., virtual representation of the Self, also called “doppelganger”) and neuro-bio-feedback, can be used to improve interpersonal skills such as public speaking or empathy.