The construction industry is undergoing a technological transformation that necessitates a shift in educational practices to adequately prepare students for a dynamic workforce. This study explores the integration of advanced digital tools, such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and mobile applications, to enhance student engagement in construction education. These technologies provide immersive, interactive learning experiences that allow students to visualize complex construction concepts, practice skills in simulated environments, and collaborate effectively. The study highlights specific benefits, including improved spatial awareness, enhanced understanding of structural elements, and the ability to engage with realistic construction scenarios safely, without the risks associated with real-life construction activities. Through a systematic review of case studies from educational institutions successfully adopting these technologies, this paper demonstrates significant improvements in student motivation, participation, and knowledge retention. The findings show that VR and AR foster deeper learning by bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, thus better preparing students for a technology-driven industry. Moreover, integrating these tools into construction education enhances soft skills such as collaboration and problem-solving, which are critical in modern construction practices. While the benefits are clear, barriers to adoption, such as high implementation costs, infrastructure limitations, and the need for faculty training, remain challenges. Recommendations include the development of partnerships with technology providers, subsidies, and professional development programs to address these barriers. In conclusion, leveraging digital technologies in construction education can significantly transform the learning process, creating a skilled, motivated, and adaptable workforce ready to navigate the evolving demands of the industry. This paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on modernizing construction education by offering insights into best practices and future directions.

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Leveraging Technology in Construction Education: Engaging Students Through Digital Innovations

  • Thalente Nkosi,
  • Molusiwa Ramabodu

摘要

The construction industry is undergoing a technological transformation that necessitates a shift in educational practices to adequately prepare students for a dynamic workforce. This study explores the integration of advanced digital tools, such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and mobile applications, to enhance student engagement in construction education. These technologies provide immersive, interactive learning experiences that allow students to visualize complex construction concepts, practice skills in simulated environments, and collaborate effectively. The study highlights specific benefits, including improved spatial awareness, enhanced understanding of structural elements, and the ability to engage with realistic construction scenarios safely, without the risks associated with real-life construction activities. Through a systematic review of case studies from educational institutions successfully adopting these technologies, this paper demonstrates significant improvements in student motivation, participation, and knowledge retention. The findings show that VR and AR foster deeper learning by bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, thus better preparing students for a technology-driven industry. Moreover, integrating these tools into construction education enhances soft skills such as collaboration and problem-solving, which are critical in modern construction practices. While the benefits are clear, barriers to adoption, such as high implementation costs, infrastructure limitations, and the need for faculty training, remain challenges. Recommendations include the development of partnerships with technology providers, subsidies, and professional development programs to address these barriers. In conclusion, leveraging digital technologies in construction education can significantly transform the learning process, creating a skilled, motivated, and adaptable workforce ready to navigate the evolving demands of the industry. This paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on modernizing construction education by offering insights into best practices and future directions.