In 2023, Transfr researchers partnered with Texas State Technical College (TSTC) to measure student performance and compare classes conducted before integration of VR into automotive programs to those with VR. The introduction of VR is associated with the marked increase in the incidence of “A” grades in 2022 (see chart below).
Researchers conducted interviews with faculty and staff members (upon their consent) to collect feedback and student evaluations. The total dataset came from 1,831 students from fall 2021 to summer 2023. Two academic years (2021 vs. 2022) were analyzed for the study. TSTC implemented VR in the fall semester of 2022, so researchers examined differences in student outcomes between the academic year of 2021 (prior to the VR implementation) and 2022 (post-implementation). A correlation indicates a significant (43%) increase in the percentage of students receiving grade A in an introductory automotive course in 2022 with the implementation of VR, compared to the pre-implementation year, 2021 (χ (1, N = 1140) = 12.2, p 0.00).
Completion of the VR simulations was mandatory and contributed to course grades, primarily in the introductory automotive course.
Partnering with clients for a research project gives us a unique opportunity to understand how our VR simulations work in a specific context. Even though we try to create an ideal learning experience for trainees, individual differences and contexts matter. Investigating the impact of our VR simulations needs to directly involve learners and educators to truly understand how they are implemented in each unique setting. Creating a strong learning product is one of our main concerns, but making the product optimally suit our clients' contexts is equally important. Building on TSTC's successful transformation of education utilizing VR, our goal is to gather more valuable insights from our customers.
The total number of students enrolled in the AUMT 1305 (Introduction to Automotive Technology) and AUMT 1310 (Automotive Brake Systems) courses was 892 in the academic year of 2021 and 939 in the academic year of 2022, as illustrated in the bar graph below. There is a correlation indicating a 5% increase in enrollment following the implementation of VR in the automotive curriculum.
AUMT 1305 and AUMT 1310 courses are both part of the AAS (Associate of Applied Science) and Certificate programs across three TSTC campuses. While taking these courses, students completed more than 700 VR simulations on Automotive Fundamentals (e.g., Jacks, Jack Stands, and Lift Safety; Battery Safety and Service), Precision Measurement (e.g., Micrometer, Dial Inch Caliper), and Plant Safety topics in 2022.
According to instructor interviews, there has been a noticeable improvement in the comfort levels of both students and instructors with VR since the fall 2022 semester. Students expressed enjoyment and interest in the VR exercises.
Instructors also report that VR simulations reduced their workloads, allowing for a more efficient teaching process. Instructors expressed a high level of satisfaction with VR technology, considering it informative and providing an environment close to real-life shops. There was a strong likelihood of recommending VR simulations.
Transfr VR has been ideal for quick implementation because it s plug and learn. It s simple to use and easy to scale up. Implementation continues to be a team effort between the XR team and the Automotive department. Faculty are present when students do their VR simulations, which allows them to help students with the technology, but also with key concepts. Having the support of the Department Chair and faculty allowed for VR to be smoothly implemented into classroom activities.
