09 NOV 2022
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Germany: virtual reality, AI and other digital technologies in VET

Against the backdrop of a worsening shortage of skilled workers, it is becoming increasingly important to be able to offer young people attractive and up-to-date vocational training. In many training occupations, knowledge can often only be acquired through haptic learning moments, which involves certain risks and a large consumption of materials and other resources. This is where projects come in, which can simulate training practice in a resource-saving way with the help of digital technologies, such as data glasses (augmented reality glasses, AR glasses), virtual reality and artificial intelligence (AI).

The integration of digital learning technologies in apprenticeship have proven to be a competitive advantage in the search for applicants. Currently, various projects are in place responding to this demand and promoting the use of digital technologies in VET:

  • InnoVET project BM=x3: Microtec Academy, the inter-company training centre. The demand for skilled workers in micro- and nanotechnology is high, but the training is demanding for companies. The equipment in a technology laboratory is expensive and not readily available. This is where the Microtec Academy of the InnoVET project ‘BM = x³’ (2020-24), run by BIBB, comes in as an inter-company training centre. An important component is the ‘virtual technology laboratory’. Here, prospective micro-technologists can learn how to operate complex high-tech systems in virtual reality, comparable to a flight simulator. This is efficient preparation for hands-on use of the real MNT high-tech labs. Apprentices thus come to the real laboratory well-prepared and can undertake practical work more quickly;
  • InnoVET project KI B3: integrating AI in initial and continuing VET. The specialists and managers required for AI must be educated and trained to be able to assess the potential of digital techniques in the VET learning process. The InnoVET project ‘KI B³’, which is run by BIBB, pursues the goal of integrating these competences into vocational training and higher vocational education. Three new additional qualifications (ZQ) at EQF levels 5 and 6, integrate the topic of AI into initial and continuing VET. A central task of the project is to identify which teaching content on AI is relevant for VET;
  • SilA project: AI used in agricultural and farm-related training. As part of the special programme for digitalisation in inter-company vocational training centres of the BIBB, the SilA project (simulation-based and immersive learning) has come into being and will run until June 2023. Here, practical learning and work experiences based on AI are being developed and implemented in agricultural training and in the handling of farm animals. The project team is developing digitally supported demonstrators that enable standardised, hands-on practice of dehorning and on-farm emergency slaughter (OFES) without direct animal contact. Prospective farmers thus learn how to handle farm animals with as little stress for the animals as possible;
  • Erasmus+ project DIGI4VET: augmented reality (AR) used in training. The Erasmus+ project DIGI4VET, coordinated by the German partner Sächsische Bildungsgesellschaft für Umweltschutz und Chemieberufe, has developed application scenarios using augmented reality (AR) for training in the chemical, painting and floristry sectors. Here, digital elements are integrated into the real learning environment. Budding chemists learn – supported by VR glasses and headphones - how to start up a chemical plant. With the trainer virtually by their side, it is possible to explain which valves have to be turned on in which order, even in learning environments with high noise pollution.

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Please cite this news item as: ReferNet Germany; Cedefop (2022). Germany: virtual reality, AI and other digital technologies in VET. National news on VET