Savon ammattiopisto (Sakky Vocational College) is running an efficient timber truck driver training development project. As part of the project, a virtual pre-departure inspection for a timber truck combination was co-developed with Sakky's teachers and 3DBear. Project Manager Arto Kärkkäinen describes the project: "The development project aims to use digital learning environments to achieve impact, consistency, and modern teaching that reduces environmental burden."
Arto describes the virtual learning environment content production as follows: "We produced content filmed in an authentic environment — and added interactive, gamified and educational content to the finished image and video material." The 360-degree filming was carried out with Sakky's high-quality equipment, and 360 images were captured at 8K resolution. Going forward, the equipment enables Sakky's staff to build VR environments independently. The goal of every 3DBear project is always that teachers gain the skills to produce AR or VR learning environments on their own through the co-development process.
A student performs the pre-departure inspection procedures step by step in the VR learning environment.
From Sakky's perspective, a particular advantage of virtual learning environments is that students can explore the content at their own pace before the actual teaching session. Additionally, the learning environment is time- and location-independent. The VR learning environment works on phones, tablets, computers, and VR headsets. Arto notes: "Students can return to the material whenever needed." Students have also been given the opportunity to track their own professional development through a Workseed integration. VR teaching content can be accessed through it, and student performances are automatically logged in the student's personal Workseed profile.
Testing virtual teaching content with VR headsets. Photo: Savon ammattiopisto.
At Sakky, the platform is considered an excellent addition to teaching, and it allows for accommodating students who may have concentration difficulties. "Especially with content viewed through VR headsets, students can focus without background noise or other distractions," says Arto. Students also gave positive feedback on the content during the pilot testing day on September 15 at Kolmisoppi in Kuopio:
"You could do the exercise at your own pace in peace."
"[When the same exercise is done] outdoors with a large group, you don't always hear what the teacher says, so things inevitably get missed."
"At Sakky, the use of VR environments in teaching has generated interest among the staff, but forestry companies and transport firms have also shown interest," says Arto. Sakky aims to use virtual learning environments to make teaching more efficient, unified, and consistently high-quality while ensuring thoroughness. VR development work continues.
Arto Kärkkäinen, Project Manager, Efficient Timber Truck Driver Training Development Project, Savon ammattiopisto