ERIC Number: EJ1406564
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023
Pages: 17
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1049-4820
EISSN: EISSN-1744-5191
Available Date: N/A
An Empirical Framework for Developing and Evaluating a Virtual Assembly Training System in Learning Factories
Xolani Nelson Skosana; Khumbulani Mpofu; John Trimble; Etienne A. van Wyk
Interactive Learning Environments, v31 n10 p6428-6444 2023
Higher Education Institutions are introducing Virtual-Reality (VR) development courses and divisions focussing on the development of Virtual Environments which are in high demand. Students without a programming background are not familiar with the processes of developing Virtual Assembly Training Systems (VATS), consequently, they learn through trial and error. To address this challenge the development of two similar VATS was observed to propose a framework detailing the workflow, roles, tasks and deliverables undertaken during development. Both VATS are based on the assembly of a top bracket, an elementary railcar component rendered via the HTC Vive Pro. The first VATS was developed by expert developers and the other through project-based learning with five engineering students. The case study was conducted at the Railcar Learning Factory wherein SolidWorks, Sketchup, Blender and Unreal Game Engine were used for CAD modelling and visual scripting. The encountered challenges and best practices evolved into the proposed framework. Findings suggest that engineers without a programming background can develop VATS when capacitated with a blend of asynchronous and synchronous learning. Importantly, Learning Factory Managers should consider the lifecycle of VR prototypes to ensure their usage in the industry. This approach can contribute to generating industry-relevant research output.
Descriptors: Computer Simulation, Educational Technology, Training, Technology Uses in Education, Engineering Education, Higher Education, Active Learning, Student Projects, Computer Assisted Design, Manufacturing
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A