Virtual reality (VR)
in training specialists
in blue-collar professions
Author of the article: Pshibes Ksenia Alexandrovna
A student of the Department of Business Informatics and Information Technologies
MGTU named after G.I. Nosov.
A student of the Department of Business Informatics and Information Technologies
MGTU named after G.I. Nosov.
Introduction
Virtual reality (VR) is a promising tool for training specialists in blue-collar professions, such as mechanics, steelworkers, slingers, and similar trades. The use of VR in training can increase the efficiency and safety of training, reduce training costs, and improve the quality of skills acquired. Virtual reality training for blue-collar specialists is a promising direction that can improve efficiency and quality, reduce costs, and ensure process safety.
Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that creates a completely artificial environment where users can interact as if they were in a real situation.
Recently, VR has been increasingly used in education and training, especially in blue-collar professions where practical experience and safety are key factors. It represents an innovative approach to education and training, which is being actively implemented in various areas, including the training of specialists in blue-collar professions.
Professions such as mechanics, steelmakers, and slingers, require workers not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills, which can be dangerous and expensive in the real world. VR offers a safe and effective alternative to traditional training methods, allowing employees to practice in a controlled and customizable environment. In this article, we will explore how VR can train various professions.
VR-training
When an employee undergoes training, it is not always clear to them how to apply theoretical knowledge in practice. An employee has to spend time adapting new skills to the work process. That time could be better spent on business tasks. VR training aims to bridge this gap. What is VR employee training?
VR training is training in an interactive format, which is based on virtual reality, game scenarios, and virtual heroes. Such training requires virtual glasses, software, controllers, and sensors. The main idea of VR training is to simulate a real work environment. It looks like this: an employee puts on VR glasses and finds themselves in a virtual environment. There, they'll have assignments, digital colleagues and clients waiting for them, and various items to help them master their knowledge. All VR training simulators are designed to help employees practice practical skills in a game format.
VR training can be used for:
- development of “soft” skills (you can practice negotiation or team management techniques);
- team training;
- improving customer experience;
- professional competencies (equipment assembly, program configuration).
Advantages of using VR in the training of blue-collar professions
VR provides a unique opportunity to train workers in new, interactive environments where they can learn essential skills quickly and effectively, improving the company's workflow.
The image shows a VR SIKE simulator for training auto mechanics
Let us highlight the main advantages of VR technology in personnel training:
- Safety
Virtual reality recreates dangerous or difficult situations possible in a work environment. Workers can practice managing critical situations without putting themselves and others at real risk. Such training is indispensable in industries associated with a high level of danger.
- Saving resources
Virtual analogs are much cheaper than real simulators, models, layouts, and other educational equipment, which reduces the cost of materials and resources, travel for employees and teachers, and transportation of training equipment.
- Improving learning efficiency and information retention
VR provides an immersive experience by creating realistic simulations of work processes, resulting in improved understanding and retention of information compared to classical learning methods.
An immersive experience is an immersion in an atmosphere where one feels surrounded and part of another reality different from everyday life. This is interaction with the environment, feeling it through all the senses, the conviction that you are truly becoming part of this world. These experiences are facilitated by technologies, including virtual reality using special glasses, as well as physical environments such as theme park attractions with multimedia components.
- Gaining decision-making skills
In VR, it is possible to create scenarios where students must make quick decisions, which is crucial for high-risk professions.
Components of successful implementation of VR in personnel training
- 1VR equipment and specialized software
Virtual reality headsets, controllers, and sometimes motion trackers. Specialized software for creating and running virtual simulations and simulators. - 2Educational content
The preparation of educational content is a key stage in the successful implementation of VR. The content should be tailored to the learning objectives and needs of the company and its employees. It should be interactive and as realistic as possible. - 3Specialists in creating VR content
It is necessary to train specialists who create and support VR-based training programs. They must be familiar with VR technology and create effective training scenarios. - 4Integrating VR into existing curricula
Virtual training should be organically integrated into the curricula, combined with theoretical training and practical exercises.
About 5% of the VR market is games and entertainment, the rest is business. Companies and enterprises are the main customers and consumers of VR solutions.
The main task of technology today is to attract the attention of customers and partners. The use of innovation is a significant advantage over other market players.
Recommendations for companies on introducing VR into the educational process
For companies interested in introducing VR into the learning process, we recommend the following:
- Research and select VR simulators that meet the requirements of specific professions.
- Invest in hardware and software that will provide high-quality and interactive learning.
- Organize staff training on the use of VR systems to effectively conduct classes.
- Stay abreast of technology developments and update training programs to remain at the forefront of workforce training.
According to KPMG data for 2019, the level of VR implementation in Russian metallurgy and oil production was 33% and 25%, respectively. VR simulators are also in demand and are purchased in higher and secondary specialized educational institutions, as well as for career guidance for schoolchildren. The Russian VR market continues to develop.
Some in-demand VR training scenarios include high-altitude work, welding, occupational safety, and first aid. The Russian VR market continues to develop.
VR in training specialists in blue-collar professions
With the development of technology, VR training also does not stand still. A lot has changed in this area over the years. Here is an example of three in-demand working professions.
- Mechanic
For mechanics, VR can train various types of work, including drilling, cutting, welding, and machine assembly. VR systems can provide hands-on experience with real equipment, as well as training in safe work practices and safety procedures. VR simulators can replicate metalworking processes, allowing students to practice in a variety of environments and with a variety of tools.
- Steelworker
VR can help steelworkers study the processes of melting and casting steel, as well as control equipment. VR simulations can recreate high-temperature conditions that are difficult to replicate in conventional training environments. Virtual training can simulate training in temperature control and visual process analysis.
- Slinger
VR training for slingers can include working with different types of cranes and lifting mechanisms, as well as training in safety rules when working at height. VR allows you to practice in various weather conditions and scenarios to prepare for real-life situations on a construction site.
The image shows a VR SIKE simulator for training slingers
Conclusion
Virtual reality is a promising tool for training specialists in blue-collar professions, offering a safe, effective, and cost-effective alternative to traditional training methods. When implemented correctly, VR can significantly enhance workers' skills, reduce accident rates, and improve production results.
This invention plays an increasingly important role in the education and training of specialists in various professions, such as mechanics, steelworkers, and slingers. This technology provides unique training and coaching opportunities for personnel, allowing them to gain the necessary skills and experience in a safe and controlled environment.
For specialists in different professions, training using VR can be extremely beneficial. For example, mechanics can practice disassembling and assembling complex mechanisms, steelworkers can learn to control metal processing, and slingers can master lifting devices. All this can be practiced in a virtual space, where mistakes do not have serious consequences, but lessons are absorbed at the level of realistic experience.
In addition, training using such technologies can significantly reduce the cost of training specialists, since there is no need to purchase and maintain expensive equipment and materials. The virtual environment can be created and customized to suit the needs of each specific training course, making the learning process more efficient and flexible.
Thus, the use of virtual reality in training specialists in blue-collar professions opens up broad prospects for them to acquire the necessary skills and experience in a safe environment. This technology helps improve the quality of training, increase the efficiency of training, and reduce training costs, which makes it increasingly in demand in the field of vocational education.
This invention plays an increasingly important role in the education and training of specialists in various professions, such as mechanics, steelworkers, and slingers. This technology provides unique training and coaching opportunities for personnel, allowing them to gain the necessary skills and experience in a safe and controlled environment.
For specialists in different professions, training using VR can be extremely beneficial. For example, mechanics can practice disassembling and assembling complex mechanisms, steelworkers can learn to control metal processing, and slingers can master lifting devices. All this can be practiced in a virtual space, where mistakes do not have serious consequences, but lessons are absorbed at the level of realistic experience.
In addition, training using such technologies can significantly reduce the cost of training specialists, since there is no need to purchase and maintain expensive equipment and materials. The virtual environment can be created and customized to suit the needs of each specific training course, making the learning process more efficient and flexible.
Thus, the use of virtual reality in training specialists in blue-collar professions opens up broad prospects for them to acquire the necessary skills and experience in a safe environment. This technology helps improve the quality of training, increase the efficiency of training, and reduce training costs, which makes it increasingly in demand in the field of vocational education.
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Training staff and students must be safe and effective!
Training staff and students must be safe and effective!