Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis presents the development of an interactive virtual reality training simulation designed to enhance technical skills acquisition in engineering education. The project aims to address the growing demand for innovative and immersive training methodologies in technical education by leveraging the capabilities of virtual reality technology. Through the creation of a virtual reality training simulation, students will have the opportunity to engage in realistic hands-on learning experiences that simulate real-world engineering scenarios. The simulation will provide a safe and controlled environment for students to practice and refine their technical skills in a dynamic and interactive manner. The project begins with an exploration of the background of the study, highlighting the current challenges faced in technical education and the potential benefits of incorporating virtual reality technology into the learning process. The problem statement identifies the limitations of traditional teaching methods in addressing the practical needs of engineering students and underscores the importance of developing new approaches to enhance technical skills acquisition. The objectives of the study are outlined to guide the development process, focusing on the creation of a user-friendly and immersive virtual reality training simulation that aligns with the curriculum requirements of engineering education programs. The scope of the study defines the boundaries and parameters of the project, outlining the key features and functionalities that will be incorporated into the simulation. The significance of the study is discussed in terms of its potential impact on engineering education, highlighting the benefits of using virtual reality technology to enhance student engagement, knowledge retention, and skill development. The structure of the thesis is presented to provide an overview of the organization of the research work, outlining the chapters and sections that will be covered in detail. A comprehensive literature review is conducted to explore existing research and developments in the field of virtual reality training simulations and their applications in technical education. The review synthesizes key findings and identifies gaps in the current literature, informing the design and development of the virtual reality training simulation. The research methodology section details the approach taken to develop the virtual reality training simulation, including the selection of software tools, design considerations, and evaluation methods. The development process is described step-by-step, highlighting the key decisions and challenges faced during the implementation of the simulation. The findings of the study are presented in Chapter Four, providing a detailed analysis of the virtual reality training simulation and its effectiveness in enhancing technical skills acquisition in engineering education. The discussion explores the strengths and limitations of the simulation, as well as potential areas for future research and improvement. Finally, Chapter Five concludes the thesis by summarizing the key findings, discussing the implications of the study, and offering recommendations for further research and development in the field of virtual reality training simulations for technical skills acquisition in engineering education. Overall, this thesis contributes to the ongoing efforts to modernize technical education through the integration of innovative technologies and interactive learning experiences.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Development of an Interactive Virtual Reality Training Simulation for Technical Skills Acquisition in Engineering Education" aims to revolutionize traditional technical education by leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance the acquisition of critical engineering skills. With the rapid advancements in virtual reality (VR) technology, there is a growing opportunity to create immersive and interactive training simulations that can significantly improve the learning experience for engineering students. This research project focuses on the design and development of a VR training simulation specifically tailored for engineering education. By creating a realistic and interactive virtual environment, students will have the opportunity to practice and refine their technical skills in a safe and controlled setting. The project aims to address the limitations of traditional classroom-based learning by providing a more engaging and hands-on approach to skill acquisition. The research will begin with a comprehensive literature review to explore the existing studies and technologies related to VR training simulations in education. This review will provide a solid foundation for understanding the current landscape and identifying gaps that this project can address. Subsequently, the project will delve into the methodology, outlining the steps involved in designing and implementing the VR training simulation. The core of the project lies in developing a highly interactive and user-friendly VR platform that simulates real-world engineering scenarios. By incorporating elements such as realistic physics, interactive tools, and feedback mechanisms, the simulation aims to provide a rich learning experience that closely mirrors the challenges and complexities of actual engineering tasks. The findings of this research will be discussed in detail, highlighting the effectiveness of the VR training simulation in improving technical skill acquisition among engineering students. The discussion will also address any challenges encountered during the development process and provide insights for future research in this field. In conclusion, the project seeks to contribute to the advancement of technical education by introducing a novel approach to skill development through immersive VR simulations. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, this research aims to empower engineering students with the necessary tools and experiences to excel in their field.