@Birgit Bachler: Feedback zum Exposé
Questions:
- Exposé clear and understandable?
- Is the research questions clear and concrete enough? How can I improve it?
- How could a realistic timeframe look like?
- How to start strategically?
- How to write/practice proper academic english?
working title
Unlocking Careers: Exploring Virtual Reality’s Potential in Simulating Various Apprenticeships – Case Study: Cooking Apprenticeship
the problem
It is no secret, that Austria has a skilled worker shortage. The numbers of young people starting an apprenticeship decreases each year. What are the main issues why teenagers decide against an apprenticeship? One main problem is that a lot of teenagers don’t know what they want to become and where their professional journey is heading. The market is flooded with job opportunities and it might be overwhelming as well. And the possibilities to dive into every single job is not possible.
state of research
There are several ways for young people to gain realistic insights into various apprenticeships. However, none of them provide a comprehensive focus on informing young people about apprenticeships and their tasks through a virtual reality simulation. The Austrian Federal Economic Chamber uses a similar method to deliver information about apprenticeships to teenagers, but they opt for an observational approach. This thesis and experiment aim to supplement this with a simulation. Users can try out common tasks and obtain information in a gamified and exploratory manner.
the question
How can young people be given realistic insights into different apprenticeships to make their decision easier?
Subquestion: How can Virtual Reality support in giving realistic insights?
the objective
In the forthcoming master’s thesis, evidence will be presented to establish that the innovative use of virtual reality technology holds significant potential in the representation of various apprenticeships. This utilization of technology can serve as a powerful tool to assist young individuals in navigating their career paths, ultimately helping them discover and pursue their ideal profession.
the reference to theory
Teenagers are inherently curious and have a natural inclination towards exploring new technologies. Virtual reality, as one of these emerging technologies, serves as an intriguing platform for them. In the context of Austria, a nation currently grappling with a shortage of skilled labor, it is essential to find fresh and engaging ways to reach out to these young individuals. Traditional methods may not resonate with them. Instead, they are more likely to be receptive to interactive and innovative approaches, particularly those that present learning as a fun and gamified experience. This approach not only makes learning enjoyable but also enhances information retention, which is vital in addressing the skilled labor shortage.
the method
Initially, I plan to create a VR simulation featuring a cooking apprenticeship case study with simple tasks. This simulation will then be tested by pupils aged 13-15 years. To evaluate the effectiveness, I will use a quantitative approach, asking the teenagers several questions both before and after the user testing.
(preliminary) structure
Title Page
Abstract (DE/EN)
Table of Contents
List of Figures and Tables
List of Abbreviations and Acronyms
Chapter 1: Introduction
Background and context of the study
Statement of the problem
Research objectives and questions
Significance of the study
Thesis structure
Chapter 2: Literature Review
Educational psychology and cognitive science theories related to learning in VR
The evolution and state of VR technology
VR in education and apprenticeship training
The role of realism and immersion in VR learning
VR content creation and design principles
User experience and HCI in VR
Chapter 3: Theoretical Framework
Framework for creating realistic insights into apprenticeships using VR
Integration of educational theories and VR technology
Chapter 4: Methodology
Research design
Data collection methods
Participants and sample selection
Data analysis procedures
Chapter 5: VR Content Development
VR hardware and software
Design and development of the chef’s apprenticeship VR simulation
User interface design and interaction techniques
Chapter 6: Implementation and Evaluation
Implementation of the VR simulation
Data collection for evaluation
Analysis of learning outcomes
User feedback and surveys
Comparison with traditional cooking apprenticeship learning methods
Chapter 7: Results and Discussion
Presentation of findings
Discussion of the effectiveness of the VR simulation
Interpretation of data
Comparison with existing literature
Implications of the results
Chapter 8: Conclusion and further Development
Summary of key findings
Contributions to the field
Final thoughts, recommendations and further development
References
Bibliography
Appendices
timetable
February – March 2024 – working on the prototype, theoretical part
March – June 2024 – working on the prototype, theoretical part
July – August 2024 Testing, Evaluation, conclusion
