Virtual Reality Hydrocarbon System Training Developed in Australia

The Technical and Further Education (TAFE) South Australia (SA) training academy has been working with local OEM AJ Baker & Sons to develop virtual reality (VR) content for a hydrocarbon refrigerant training’ module by year’s end. 

TAFE SA has been training on HC safety for several years and now is taking its training to the next level by employing a VR module that will assist in giving students the skills needed to safely service and install hydrocarbon equipment, explained Shannon Baldock, Electrical Lecturer at TAFE SA. The academy began working with VR in 2018.

“We believe that the immersive VR component is what makes our training unique,” said Balcock. “This training increases a student’s engagement and retention. When this is combined with our practical training you can get fantastic outcomes for the students and their employers.”

The practical components of the VR training will be carried out at TAFE SA’s Tonsley campus, to which AJ Baker & Sons loaned the domestic hydrocarbon fridges and air conditioners. The training academy has had a long-standing collaborative relationship with the OEM, using some of its cabinets in other training as well.