Studying common qualification modules can be challenging for many students, as the coursework often consists of theoretical tasks with no clear connection to vocational studies. During the Perusteista poluille project, which concluded in the spring of 2022, Luksia set out to diversify the common modules and explore new ways to study and demonstrate competence. One goal was to increase hands-on learning in physics education.
The idea emerged to develop a physics escape game in a virtual world. VR headsets and a 360-degree camera were acquired, and collaboration with 3DBear began in August 2022. The starting point was to create a game related to learning the use of physics measurement instruments that would provide as realistic an experience as possible using 360-degree images and videos with VR headsets. The game would use the same virtual measurement instruments available in the classroom. A touch of storytelling was also desired.
Under 3DBear's guidance, the team became familiar with the Wonda VR platform and began brainstorming the game flow in a group of 4–5 people. Considerable time was spent on this and on planning the filming. During joint meetings, topics were refined, and the most essential measurement tasks made it into the game. The story began to take shape, and Tytyri mine was jointly decided as the filming location — the team contacted them right away and the collaboration could begin. A narrative game also needed an actor, and Esa Pavloff-Pelkonen, who works as a vocational instructor at Luksia, was an excellent choice for this role. In the game, Esa plays a fantasy character called Conscience who guides the player — who falls asleep during a boring physics lesson — through the Tytyri adventure. Over the fall, the game was completed and is now ready for student testing.
The game's concept is to return a stone originating from Tytyri to its rightful place, but along the way there are various measurement-related questions that earn points. In the game, students learn to read a laser distance meter, a laser thermometer, and calipers, to use a scale, and to perform speed calculations, among other things. Finally, the player — the student — reaches the goal and receives credit for this physics module.
Mirva Vuori, Lecturer
Technology, competence development, common qualification modules, mirva.vuori@luksia.fi