Bulldozers are considered essential in construction and earthmoving projects. They are used for road building, mining, quarrying, on farms, and in heavy industry factories. They consist of a large, motorized machine equipped with a metal blade to the front for pushing material: soil, sand, snow, rubble, or rock. They usually travel on continuous tracks, providing superior traction on most surfaces. Participants will operate a bulldozer and complete various tasks on an active worksite as part of this engaging simulation.
Overview & Activities:
Participants begin with an overview that provides context and helps identify key parts and components outside and inside the vehicle, safety tips, and the basics of a walk-around inspection performed before using any heavy machinery. Participants engage in a sort-and-match activity to reinforce essential controls and their location inside the vehicle. They are then asked to perform a single task to become familiar with operating the vehicle in a VR environment. Embedded learning outcomes are designed to help individuals remember, understand, and apply acquired knowledge.
Participant Simulation:
The interactive and manipulative simulation allows participants to explore, learn, and practice operating a dump truck in a safe and realistic format. Before beginning their tasks, participants must don personal protective equipment (PPE) and conduct a walk-around inspection of the vehicle. Finally, participants are challenged to complete tasks at an active worksite, including leveling a small hill, moving multiple piles of dirt into a targeted area, and filling a hole with gravel.
Benefits & Key Features:
• Manipulative simulations provide hands-on practice in risk-free environments
• Instant feedback provides “correct" or "try again" responses to guide participants
• Flexible choice points allow participants to revisit any part of the simulation as needed
• Realistic 3D tools, equipment, environments, and animations
• Transferable skills can be directly applied to real-world scenarios
