The Pedagogical value of virtual reality training for electrical workers on energy storage and microgrid systems

With the increased adoption of energy storage and microgrid (ESAM) systems around the world, there is a need to develop comprehensive training programs to ensure the safety of electrical workers who work on these systems. Virtual reality (VR) has been applied to education in many fields and proven to be valuable in improving learning. However, systematic research evaluating the pedagogical value of VR training for electrical workers in dangerous environments is minimal. This research focused on the development of two VR training scenario including walkthrough and situational assessment. Researchers evaluated training with participants using both an immersive model in a head-mounted VR display and a presentation with videos taken from VR model navigation. A focus group meeting was conducted along with surveys to collect information regarding the value, feature needs, perception of learning, and future uses of VR for the training of electrical workers. The results show that immersive VR training is more valuable than video-based training in supporting knowledge understanding, engaging participants, and increasing skills to perform tasks. The focus group discussion demonstrated that features like immersion, ease of control, and constant navigation were important in immersive VR training. Participants also suggested developing additional hazard management scenarios and considering the use of augmented reality (AR) for future training.