Fashion simulation lab: development and initial testing of a virtual textile foundations lab
Date
2022
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Publisher
University of Delaware
Abstract
The global pandemic is clearly illuminating the value and even necessity of online education and remote learning for students around the world (IEEE, 2020). However, students are still expected to have the competencies developed from lab coursework and hand-on experimentation. The purpose of this study was to develop and launch a virtual simulation lab focused on cotton fiber and fabric and evaluate the virtual labs effectiveness in delivering textile lab course content to students. The virtual simulation lab provided students the opportunity to experiment with cutting-edge technology in an accessible learning environment. Two virtual simulation labs were created using the virtual reality platforms Mozilla Hubs and Spatial. Students were split into two groups, one completing the virtual simulation lab and the other an in-person lab version of the same lab. A post lab survey was developed to capture students' experiences with both types of lab formats. After data analysis on students' experiences with the functionality and aesthetics of both lab types was examined. Also, evaluating correlations between students' social presence and engagement between the virtual and in-person labs. It was found that the majority of students had positive correlations between social presence and engagement while completing both labs. Functionality and lab aesthetics were found to have strong positive agreement with positive statements about each lab. The virtual textile simulation lab is effective in delivering textile course content to students. Overall, students' experiences within the virtual lab were positive with a few recommending new features to improve the virtual lab for future iterations.
Description
Keywords
Apparel technology, Higher education, Online learning, Textile education, Virtual reality