DigiLernSicher: Digital acquisition of security know-how

More than learning

The main focus of the project is the provision of basic digital skills for apprentices in electrical engineering through a specially developed VR app. During design fiction workshops involving trainers and apprentices, VR learning scenarios were identified. The subsequent development of the VR app and intensive testing of its use led to the development of a comprehensive VR simulation. The result is a guide that provides valuable insights into the successful implementation of VR as a training tool.

One of the main objectives of the project is to give apprentices and employees the opportunity to experience potentially dangerous situations safely. VR’s immersive characteristics offer a promising solution to this challenge. In addition, the project will explore game-based learning approaches, augmented reality and first-person simulations as a means to improve safety-related training aspects.

In order to achieve these objectives, the project has taken several approaches:

• Analysis of security issues in Styria companies
• Assessment of existing curricula for security-related knowledge and the integration of digital technologies
• Design scenarios to learn security-related measures using digital technologies
• Prototypical implementation of a VR environment specifically for the training of electrical engineering professionals
• Sound scientific evaluation and assessment of the acceptance and socio-economic feasibility of VR apps in VET

The VR scenario has been developed with various partners and provides a home environment with potentially damaged electrical appliances. Under this scenario, the acceptance, usability and spatial perception of VR-based training can be studied. The results of the project study in cooperation with partners from the business and VET sector will contribute to the development of guidelines for the successful integration of VR training into VET curricula.

Target audience

The developed VR application benefits vocational school teachers who can gain valuable experience in using VR as a training tool, as well as apprentices and students who can familiarise themselves with VR technology as a learning tool. The initiative is free of charge for all stakeholders. The VR app was also made available free of charge to the two regional vocational schools for electrical engineering in Styria, so that it can be used by teachers and students in the classroom. Companies have also expressed an interest in the VR app to use it in its current form for training, but also to develop it for their needs and to promote the use of digital technologies in general.

What makes this offer a good practice

DigiLernSicher is an important step in promoting vocational education and training through the effective and efficient use of VR technology. The project aims to change the way apprentices and workers handle safety and complex content in their training. To this end, it combines innovative approaches, secure VR training and extensive research. The project supports cooperation with key organisations, provides operational guidelines for practice and allows for equal participation in advanced learning methods. This project can inspire other initiatives that explore the transformative power of new technologies in the field of education.

This contribution is based on an article by Irene Marinelli, first published on the European Digital Skills and Jobs Platform on 27 July 2023.