Virtual Reality-Based Learning Performance in Civil Engineering Education

The focus of this research is the design and implementation of VR based learning media for building construction classes and exam ining its efficacy on how it helps the students comprehensively grasp the concepts taught in those classes us-on. It is however important to note that two major misconceptions regarding virtual reality that persons may hold are that students act like passive observers in a virtual environment and un-derstand theory without practice or visual representation. This is the reason why VR is the chosen option. The development processes used were needs analysis design development testing and evaluation. The end product is a VR software that enables students to construct a building model in a simulated environment, conduct construction exercises, and gain insight on some aspects of the construction process. The findings reveal the conclusion that virtual reality is a tool that has a good impact in the learning process of individuals. Learners when exposed to virtual reality were able to perform well by understanding concepts better and acquiring practical skills and motivation in learning. Moreover, students were enthusiastic about the use of virtual reality as an effective and easy learning tool. This study suggests that there is a great potential for virtual reality to augment the teaching and learning of construction in an effective and efficient manner. It is suggested that virtual reality be further included in the curriculum for civil engineering education as it has been observed that some of the challenges posed by conventional teaching and learning such as time and space do not apply to it.