The Conflict Management Office (CMO), in collaboration with the Staff Excellence Fund, invites all University of Waterloo staff (full-time, part-time, contract, and student staff) to a hands-on workshop exploring how virtual reality can support you in preparing for difficult conversations.
Ovation VR uses AI-driven avatars to simulate challenging scenarios such as performance reviews, job interviews, and conflict resolution. By allowing you to practice these interactions and receive feedback, this immersive tool can help you build confidence and reduce workplace stress.
In this session, you will:
- Get comfortable using a VR headset
- Set up your Ovation VR account and explore its features
- Become familiar with CMO resources available to guide you in preparing for a difficult conversation
- Have the option of practicing a challenging conversation using Ovation during the session or at a later time on your own.
Join us:
- Date: Thurs, Feb 05, 2026
- Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
- Location: Faculty Hall PSE (FORMALLY E7)-7303 & 7363
- To Register: WorkDay
This group workshop is open to all employees, but capacity is limited.
Facilitator: Lynn Long
Lynn Long is the Senior Education and Learning Specialist with the Conflict Management Office at the University of Waterloo, where she has worked for 17 years. She coordinates the VR for Workplace Wellness initiative, including the “Practicing Difficult Conversations with Ovation VR” program for faculty and staff. With extensive experience in adult education, Lynn specializes in conflict resolution, human rights education, and innovative learning technologies. Her doctoral research explores how artificial intelligence and virtual reality can enhance communication and foster skill and competency development. Passionate about human-centered design and inclusive education, Lynn brings a unique perspective on using immersive technologies to build confidence and competence in challenging conversations.