Towards applying virtual reality techniques in fostering blended learning of the construction technology

Effective learning of building technology is stemming from persistent practices in transforming information from construction drawings to appropriate responses in compliance with the industry standards and the government requirements. This type of training has been delivered in a conventional fashion involving formal lectures and studios-based practice sessions. Nevertheless, learners usually lack construction site experience and demand for more intensive guidance to understand the learning materials they received in classes. Unfortunately, this issue is more critical as professional trainers or academics in this area with sufficient industry experience is not readily available. Devising more effective training in construction technology shall be invaluable for the learners, trainers and the construction industry itself. Research findings suggest that virtual reality (VR) environment engender learners to make more references to critical thinking and higher-order cognition in compare to conventional teaching methods. In engineering education context, VR improves learners’ understanding about spatial arrangements and the link between two-dimensional and three-dimensional environment. A literature review that identified the types of VR techniques in application to construction education and professional training was conducted. Strengths and weaknesses of these applications were compared. The findings suggest that not all VR techniques are effective on fostering blended learning with integration among real-life construction site environment. A more effective form of VR technique should address the limitation of hardware, class size and conditions.