Virtual Reality is gaining value as an instructional technique, and it’s set to have a truly practical impact for IMTS 2022 visitors. Manufacturing training experts at Tooling U-SME will demonstrate the new Virtual Labs capability at the September 12-17 event in Chicago. At three exhibits – Tooling U-SME’s booth 431678; the SME Education Foundation, booth 215100; and the SME Technology Hub, booth 236900 – visitors can sample the new Virtual Labs immersive VR training curriculum.
Tooling U-SME presents “competency-based learning and development” programs for manufacturing, and has worked with thousands of companies and hundreds of educational institutions for almost 20 years.
Virtual Labs subjects will include safety, inspection, assembly, welding, and additive manufacturing. For each Virtual Lab, customers receive a comprehensive skills guide that provides a structured way to set up and integrate the new technology into a blended learning approach.
Virtual Labs learning modules allow a worker or trainee to use a Meta Quest 2 VR headset (or to connect through their desktop or laptop computer) to access applied learning programs. By providing realistic, immersive experiences for learners to work with simulated equipment, Tooling U-SME Virtual Labs bring real-world manufacturing into an instructional setting, to promote skills competency.
Meta headsets were selected because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, providing a low barrier to entry for any user. Alternatively, computer-based Virtual Labs, available on laptops and desktops, offer instruction in a virtual environment that is similar to computer gaming, without a headset.
“Just as the manufacturing industry is embracing technology to move better and faster into the future, we can also optimize training and its effectiveness and scalability through leveraging technology,” explained Jeannine Kunz, chief workforce development officer at SME. “Our Virtual Labs help manufacturers and educators engage, onboard, upskill learners to build a high-performing, advanced manufacturing workforce and, ultimately, strengthen the industry’s competitiveness.”
Using a Meta Quest 2 headset or through their desktop or laptop computer, trainees tap into applied learning through virtual reality. By providing realistic, immersive experiences for learners to work with simulated equipment, Tooling U-SME Virtual Labs accelerate competency for real-world manufacturing situations.
“Just as the manufacturing industry is embracing technology to move better and faster into the future, we can also optimize training and its effectiveness and scalability through leveraging technology,” said Jeannine Kunz, chief workforce development officer at SME. “Our Virtual Labs help manufacturers and educators engage, onboard, upskill learners to build a high-performing, advanced manufacturing workforce and, ultimately, strengthen the industry’s competitiveness.”
Tooling U-SME uses a blended learning approach it tested and streamlined through an 18-month pilot program with various manufacturers. Virtual Labs are the centerpiece of an Applied Learning Model.
Based on a “Learn-Practice-Perform” model, the Virtual Labs direct workers to:
• learn new information through standard instruction;
• practice skills in a safe, virtual environment; and,
• perform tasks and apply knowledge on the job or in the classroom.
First, learners build on the knowledge acquired in the prerequisite Tooling U-SME online classes covering subjects from Machining, Maintenance and Welding to Smart Skills, such as additive, digital, cybersecurity, and robotics and automation.
Then, the trainees then put their knowledge into practice as they navigate the virtual environment, demonstrating that they can understand and follow instructions, perform tasks in a manufacturing setting, and answer questions.
Finally, through on-the-job training, they perform each task on the shop floor or in the classroom.
“With Virtual Labs, we are taking yet another step forward by providing high-tech, experiential learning using the latest technology available,” according to senior director Chad Schron. “As Smart Manufacturing revolutionizes the industry, our mission is to elevate workforce knowledge and capabilities for individuals, manufacturers, educational institutions, and workforce development organizations so they are ready for what’s here and what’s next.”
More information about the Virtual Labs is available from Tooling U-SME at 866-706-8665 or go.toolingu.com/vlabs.
