We are thrilled to announce that Electrical Testing Ltd (ETL) has been honoured with the Safety Initiative Award at the prestigious Highway Electrical Association (HEA) Awards 2023, which took place at the HEA Annual Conference Exhibition & Awards on 26 October 2023. Our submission, titled “The Future of Traffic Management Training: ETL’s Virtual Reality Initiative,” was lauded for its forward-thinking approach towards enhancing safety training in the highway electrical sector.
With the accompanying video below, we invite you to witness first-hand the revolutionary VR TM Training Application that bagged this esteemed award.
Our innovative Virtual Reality (VR) Traffic Management (TM) Training Application showcased a significant advancement not only within our firm, but also in the broader HEA and HEMSA communities, marking a significant stride in safety performance enhancement.
The Context
Traditionally, the HESE302.1 course has served as the foundation of TM training. However, conventional classroom learning has its drawbacks, especially in readying operatives for real-world scenarios. Identifying this gap, we introduced our VR TM Training Application to augment existing training methodologies, providing a more engaging, realistic, and immersive learning experience.
Unveiling the VR TM Training Application
The core of our application allows multiple operatives to engage in a virtual environment that closely resembles real-world conditions. Trainees can execute a traffic management plan, set up a site, and interact with traffic signals and live traffic. A unique fail-safe mechanism is integrated; if an operative steps onto the road, they could be “struck” by a vehicle, triggering a ‘game over’ scenario. This instils a heightened sense of responsibility and situational awareness among trainees.
Embracing Gamification
The inclusion of gamification features in our VR TM Training Application is among its most innovative aspects. By blending elements like scoring systems, competitive environments, and real-time feedback, we’ve transformed the learning process into an engaging and enjoyable experience. This elevated engagement level enhances retention rates, encourages active participation, and fosters a sense of achievement among trainees.
The Multifaceted Benefits of VR Training
VR technology facilitates immersive learning, enabling operatives to be thoroughly involved in the training. Unlike conventional methods, VR emphasises a practical approach, enriching the learning experience. From enhanced retention, realistic scenarios, collaborative learning, to instant feedback, the benefits of VR training are manifold. Moreover, the accessibility and cost-effectiveness of this modality present a financially viable long-term investment, with safety being the ultimate advantage.
Incorporated Scoring System
Our VR TM Training Application boasts an integrated scoring system, grading trainees based on various performance metrics. This system not only provides an objective assessment of a trainee’s skills but also fosters a competitive learning environment and enables personalised feedback.
Video Demonstration and Testimonials
Accompanying our submission was a video demonstration, portraying the immersive nature of the training and the real-time decision-making involved. We also captured heartening testimonials from our staff and Highway Electrical apprentices, whose overwhelmingly positive feedback emphasised the revolutionary impact of our VR training.
Closing Remarks
The accolade from HEA Awards 2023 is not merely a recognition of an innovative educational tool; it signifies a broader safety initiative with far-reaching implications. ETL’s VR TM Training Application not only augments traditional training methods but sets a new benchmark of excellence in safety training. This award reaffirms our commitment to spearheading innovative solutions that contribute to enhanced safety performance across the industry.
We are immensely grateful to the HEA Awards Committee for this recognition and are eager to continue showcasing the transformative impact of our VR TM Training Application on the industry’s safety standards.