Approach for Conceptualization and Implementation of Virtual Reality in Learning Factories

Learning factories are already in their physical design a complex and expensive tool for vocational training. However, despite the high-quality learning factory concepts available today, the complexity of the industrial production environment makes the transfer of intended competencies into the operational application situation a challenging task. With Virtual Reality (VR), this challenge can be met by adapting the learning environment and personalizing the learning scenario to the respective participants. Though, the adaption of the learning environment to the expected participants brings new challenges. In addition to the necessity of a clear definition of target groups and intended competencies, which is also present in the physical concept, there are further challenges for VR, e.g. the selection of design elements in the virtual environment or the best possible integration of virtual learning scenarios in hybrid learning modules. That can be met with a reasonable conception and implementation process: in the research project PortaL, a multi-stage procedure with nine sections in three phases was developed that assists the structured conceptualization and implementation of virtual learning scenarios and offers a better experience for the participants. The presented approach guides its users through the definition of objectives and requirements as well as the actual concept and evaluation phases. These aspects are covered among others and are presented in this publication.