Whitehead Ross Education, a social welfare organization that supports the unemployed to retrain and secure jobs, is partnering with ARuVR to rollout to the construction sector a suite of extended reality (XR) training experiences. The offering relies on using augmented reality (AR), virtual and mixed reality tools and spatial computing techniques, allied to Whitehead’s UK outreach to 1,000 initial learners. Other sectors like TV production will join the program as it develops.
A generative artificial intelligence (AI) engine underpins the vendor’s ARuVR® XR L&D omni-platform that Whitehead Ross Education is basing its initial UK construction training program on. This offers organizations such as themselves the ability to create holistic XR learning experiences that can move learners through an entire, flexible learning cycle, spanning to future sectors the partners are also targeting like TV and film work, or future teaching assistant (TA) training.
The immersive technology allows Whitehead Ross Education to deliver impactful, practical, and engaging educational experiences, across a wide range of subject areas, to those that really need it. Learners can gain hands-on, practical insights in a safe and controlled environment without having to experience a dangerous construction site or chaotic school environment from the get-go. However, the education is still realistic, engaging and accessible, making the transition to a real work site much easier in the future when and if a long-term job is secured.
Commenting on the on-going initiative, Ian Ross, CEO of Whitehead Ross Education, said: „We strive to provide innovative solutions that make education and training more impactful. Partnering with ARuVR allows us to harness the potential of immersive XR technology to revolutionize our curriculum and better prepare our learners for the challenges they will face in their careers.“
Founded in 2012, Whitehead Ross Education provide support for unemployed individuals in the UK to retrain and secure jobs via vocational training programmes, adult education, and social services provision, where appropriate. They’ve worked with 16,837 individuals since their foundation.
Delivering AR and extended reality (XR) learning experiences
The partnership with ARuVR involves the development of 15 XR modules that augment reality and are designed to equip an initial 1,000 UK learners with essential skills and confidence – in construction at first, but other sectors are already following on, as the project expands. Among the key modules that have already been launched are:
- Construction Site Safety Training: This module is aimed at learners entering the construction industry. It covers critical topics, including hazard perception, recognizing safety signs, identifying fire hazards, and understanding proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). It provides essential safety training in a risk-free XR environment, equipping students with the knowledge needed to navigate construction sites safely.
- Soft Skills for Interview Preparation: This module is designed to help learners prepare for job interviews by practising common interview questions in an interactive and immersive environment. By refining their responses in a realistic setting, students build confidence and enhance their readiness for real-world interviews.
- Introduction to TV and Film Production: This nascent module will introduce students to the five main steps of video content creation. By allowing learners to take on the role of a producer, the module blends theoretical knowledge with practical XR applications, offering an engaging way to explore the creative process and hopefully get a job in the sector.
- Teaching Assistant Training: The next planned module will focus on preparing learners for roles as teaching assistants (TAs). It will highlight the responsibilities of supporting pupils and teachers, simulate common classroom challenges, and provide scenarios to develop conflict-resolution skills. The aim is to give learners a realistic understanding of the role and its demands.
According to Frank Furnari, CEO of ARuVR: „We are proud to collaborate with Whitehead Ross Education in shaping the future of training. Our immersive XR solutions will empower learners to bridge the gap between theory and practice, creating impactful experiences that foster confidence and competence. This partnership embodies our mission to make learning more experiential, practical, and transformative.“
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