Zusammenfassung
In this article, we begin by defining key terms such „virtual reality“ and „avatars“, and describe the „ProReal“ system. We set out the rationale behind the design of „ProReal“ – a virtual world, avatar-based software designed for coaching. We describe how a coach would use „ProReal“, showing its potential to accelerate learning, insight, and profound change. We suggest that coaching in „ProReal“ requires practices that privilege the „client-in-charge“ and working in a „trialogue“. That is, in a three-way conversation between the client, the world the client sets out in „ProReal“, and the coach. The coach acts as a facilitator, enabling the client to use the softwrae render thoughts, feelings and relationships in a visual world, enriched by narrative and symbol; to find alternative ways of perceiving, thinking, and feeling - rehearsing new behaviours in the virtual world before taking action. We present the science that underpins „ProReal“, and emerging evidence about its effectiveness. Finally, we propose a brave new world of coaching, where the avatar is prominent, and which democratises and enriches work with clients in hitherto unimagined ways.
Special thanks to Professor David Clutterbuck and Klaus Doellinger
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Notes
- 1.
Psychodrama was conceived by J. L. Moreno, a psychiatrist and group psychotherapist who was also a thinker, educationalist and psychosociologist who pioneered methods for social network analysis. For an overview of his contribution and ideas see Nolte (2014).
- 2.
Sociodrama is grounded in the theories and methods developed by J. L. Moreno. In contrast to psychodrama, where the focus is the individual, sociodrama focuses on social relationships. For more information see Sternberg and Garcia (2000).
- 3.
By “props” we mean virtual objects and symbols which the client can select from a menu and place in the landscape.
- 4.
We use the term “facilitator” to refer to the coach or counsellor working with the client in “ProReal”.
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Tawadros, T., Tinker, D., Jackson, A. (2018). Coaching in a Virtual World – Your avatar will see you now. In: Heller, J., Triebel, C., Hauser, B., Koch, A. (eds) Digitale Medien im Coaching. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-662-54269-9_12
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