Virtual learning platforms: assisting work integrated learning

Work integrated learning (WIL) assists with the assimilation of theory and practice, ultimately producing job ready graduates with the capacity to engage effectively within their chosen work environment. However, for the discipline of construction management (CM), WIL is often impeded by a range of challenges. First, construction sites are considered high risk environments where safety and liability may hinder work place opportunities. Second, large student cohorts combined with distance delivery where impediments of location and the need for an equitable educational experience arise. Furthermore, with regulatory courses, the potential for on-site identification of building code non-compliances (fire safety) further impacts opportunities. This paper presents Stage 2 of a pilot study: Stage 1 involved the preliminary use of a virtual learning platform to simulate an on-site practical experience for students learning construction management curriculum, specifically courses involving building regulation. To understand whether the platform is suitable as a teaching tool and to further enhance the environment and maximise its potential as a CM learning instrument it was also presented, in Stage 2, to a related discipline (health) student cohort who had completed work experience and had a knowledge of fire safety. The intent was to examine realism and replication of a real world environment. Initial qualitative results favour the environment for its realism, immersion and navigation capabilities. Furthermore, it was considered an effective tool for placing theory into context assisting work integration.