Reducing Beginning Welders’ Anxiety by Integrating Virtual Reality Simulations

This study examined the use of virtual reality to reduce the anxiety of beginning welders. With the multiple safety concerns related to the welding profession, numerous triggers of anxiety were present. This study utilized VRTEX® virtual reality welding simulators to examine if virtual reality could reduce anxiety in welders. Researchers recorded anxiety related measures by utilizing a BioHarness® data logger and telemetry physiology monitoring system. The collected measures included heart rate, respiration rate, body temperature, and pulse. Participants were recorded during the completion of test welds to help identify triggers of anxiety during the welding process. It was concluded that all participants experienced anxiety during the completion of test welds which affected the ability to produce a passing weldment. This implies that if industry can reduce the anxiety trainees would experience during the training program and testing process, it may lead to a higher percentage of individuals obtaining welding certifications. With the release of an augmented reality training system which provides feedback for beginning welders during the actual welding process in real-life, future research needs to be conducted to see the effect it has on a beginning welder’s anxiety level.