AI simulations helping UWTSD students build real-world professional skills
Students at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) are developing essential communication and professional skills using AI-powered simulations, an initiative recently highlighted at one of the UK’s largest education technology conferences.
The University shared insights from its use of the immersive learning platform Bodyswaps at Digifest, a national conference hosted by Jisc that brings together leaders from across higher and further education to explore how digital technologies are shaping the future of learning and the student experience.
Originally introduced within the University’s Institute of Education and Humanities, the technology is now being used by students across programmes and campuses in Swansea, Carmarthen and ICC Birmingham. Bodyswaps allows students to practise workplace and interpersonal skills through interactive conversations with virtual characters in realistic scenarios. A distinctive feature of the platform enables learners to “swap perspectives”, experiencing the interaction from another person’s point of view to reflect on their communication style and develop empathy.
The simulations provide a safe environment where students can repeat scenarios, receive instant feedback on elements such as tone and delivery, and refine their approach before applying these skills in real professional settings.
Speaking at Digifest, Laura Hutchings, Institute Digital Lead for the Institute of Education and Humanities and academic lead for the Bodyswaps project, explained how immersive technologies are supporting the development of human skills alongside academic knowledge.
“Bodyswaps has provided a really valuable way for students to practise the kinds of communication and interpersonal skills that are essential for their future careers,” she said.
“It’s been particularly valuable for colleagues within the Institute of Education and Humanities to see how the platform is being used across other institutes in the University. Being able to learn from different use cases and share best practice has helped us explore new ways of integrating the technology into teaching and assessment.”
One of the strengths of the platform is its flexibility. Academic staff can customise or create their own scenarios, allowing simulations to reflect different professional contexts and learning outcomes across disciplines.
The project has also created opportunities for collaboration between academic staff and the University’s Digital Experience and Engagement team, who work with colleagues to design and embed immersive learning activities.
“Immersive technologies are creating new opportunities for academics to design experiential learning activities that would be difficult to replicate in traditional classroom settings,” said Glyn Jenkins, the Digital Experience and Engagement Manager.
“Our role is to work alongside colleagues to explore these possibilities, supporting the design, testing and implementation of simulation-based learning using platforms such as Bodyswaps. This collaborative approach allows us to innovate while ensuring the technology is aligned with learning outcomes.”
Strong engagement with the platform has placed the University among the top three organisations globally for usage within the Bodyswaps project, reflecting the growing interest in immersive AI tools to support student skills development.
James Cale, Director of Digital Services, said the initiative demonstrates the value of collaboration across the University.
“Projects like this demonstrate the impact that strong collaboration between academic colleagues and our digital teams,” said James Cale.
“By working together we can explore innovative technologies that enhance teaching and learning, support digital transformation, and ensure our students develop the skills they need for the future.”
As the project continues to develop, the University is exploring further opportunities to integrate immersive simulations into teaching and assessment across programmes.
Initiatives such as this highlight how AI is being used not to replace human interaction, but to support students in building the confidence, communication and professional skills that will help them succeed in their future careers.
Further Information
Arwel Lloyd
Principal PR and Communications Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: arwel.lloyd@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07384 467076