Make it Machinima! Incorporating gaming technologies into e-training application creation

Scenario-based training has been used successfully for the provision of training in military and law enforcement agencies. With recent advancements in multimedia technology, it is now possible to create realistic scenarios within virtual environments, which enable learning through experimentation. The virtual scenes supporting these training applications are often created using video media that are expensive to create and post-shooting video modifications is often difficult to implement. This paper explores an innovative way of applying electronic game creation technology to create cost-effective high quality 3D animated scenarios for e-training purposes. "Machinima", a process which emerged to assist the development of low budget animated film in the entertainment world, is employed in this research. Computational experience indicated that the proposed approach makes it possible for training instructors to be directly involved with the creation of a scenario and that it has proven to be ideal for developing training to handle hazardous or life threatening situations. "Post-production" modifications are now possible.