Case Study on Mobile Virtual Reality Construction Training

Recent surveys among construction firms found, a majority has a hard time filling craft worker/hourly positions and salaried jobs. Among the ways they are trying to create more is in-house training. However, existing learning methods have been lagging effectiveness or are outdated. New approaches, like mobile virtual reality, are being investigated. In this paper, the authors describe their approach to a low cost virtual reality training that offers personalized feedback for trainees or workers. The developed approach utilizes elements of gamification for motivational purposes. While the training requirements were gathered in dialogue with leading companies in the construction and engineering industry sectors, the research conducted focused on prototyping and testing the novel learning concept. As a result, the authors developed a mobile virtual reality application that utilizes the Google Daydream SDK that runs on Google Cardboard, Samsung Gear VR, Oculus Go or compatible other inexpensive devices. The application was tested and evaluated by industry representatives. An outlook provides the path forward in research and development.