Intro to Construction

Guided by professionals across seven interactive modules, students are introduced to a variety of VR construction environments. They explore different job roles, follow clear instructions, and practice key skills in an authentic work setting. With a focus on accuracy and safety, students complete tasks such as measuring materials, operating tools, and assembling parts, supported by a virtual keypad that switches between guided and assessment modes. Each module begins with a briefing and ends with a knowledge check. Students learn to apply PPE, work with hand and power tools, calculate measurements, and match materials to the right job. They also build a timber frame structure and explore career options in trades such as plumbing, tiling, and electrical work. Continuous progress tracking throughout the module helps students prepare for realistic job expectations and their next steps in the industry. **Key features:** - Designed with input from construction professionals and trainers - Covers practical skills, safety, and job awareness across multiple trades - Includes guided and assessment modes with built-in progress tracking ## Course Content: This course is split into seven modules: **Modules:** - Module 1: Health and Safety - Module 2: Mathematics - Module 3: Measurement Tools - Module 4: Hand Tools - Module 5: Power Tools - Module 6: Materials - Module 7: Construction Careers ## Duration & Guidance: All modules are approximately 10-15 minutes in duration, but times may vary depending on the user. Lessons can be completed across multiple sessions, as user progress will be saved. We recommend that this experience is best undertaken standing, although a seated experience is possible. ## Module 1: Safety{.objective .objective1} Meet your site mentor and prepare yourself with the correct PPE. Follow essential health and safety procedures relating to tools, people, and materials. ## Learning Objectives: 1. Recognize the standard PPE used in construction{.info} 2. Demonstrate how to move safely around a building site{.info} 3. Identify basic site hazards and how to reduce risk{.info} ## Module 2: Mathematics{.objective .objective2} Use area and perimeter to plan around a wall opening. Practice key maths skills that help tradespeople calculate required materials and plan jobs correctly. ## Learning Objectives: 1. Use basic formulas to calculate perimeter and area{.info} 2. Apply measurement to construction scenarios{.info} 3. Estimate materials needed based on job dimensions{.info} ## Module 3: Measurement{.objective .objective3} Check and mark timber using standard units of measurement. Build confidence using a ruler and working with fractions of an inch. ## Learning Objectives: 1. Measure accurately using a ruler{.info} 2. Identify and use fractional markings{.info} 3. Mark materials based on given measurements{.info} ## Module 4: Hand Tools{.objective .objective4} Cut timber to the correct length and practice using tools safely. Learn how to work with a handsaw, a square, and a pencil to prepare materials for building. ## Learning Objectives: 1. Identify common hand tools{.info} 2. Use a hand saw to cut materials to length{.info} 3. Follow safe handling techniques during cutting tasks{.info} ## Module 5: Power Tools{.objective .objective5} Use a power drill to assemble a timber frame. Learn how to drill holes, insert screws and check the stability of your finished product. ## Learning Objectives: 1. Identify the parts and functions of a power drill{.info} 2. Use a drill to fasten components safely{.info} 3. Follow the instructions to complete a construction task{.info} ## Module 6: Materials{.objective .objective6} Match construction materials with their correct use. Apply paint to finish a timber frame and understand why certain materials are chosen for different jobs. ## Learning Objectives: 1. Recognize common building materials and their uses{.info} 2. Select appropriate materials for the given tasks{.info} 3. Apply paint evenly using a brush{.info} ## Module 7: Employment Opportunities{.objective .objective7} Meet people who work in construction and learn about their careers. Find out what skills are essential and how to enter the industry. ## Learning Objectives: 1. Identify a range of construction job roles{.info} 2. Describe the skills and training linked to each role{.info} 3. Understand basic career pathways in the construction sector{.info} # TEACHING FRAMEWORK{.objective .objective} # Before the Experience **KWL Chart** Activate prior knowledge and prepare students for what they will see in VR simulation. Students will fill in the K (What I Know) and W (What I Want to Know) sections, while the remaining section will be completed post-experience. - Identify three things that you already know or think you know about the industry, technology, tools used and/or careers.{.task} - Write two questions about what you want answered or are curious about.{.task} # During the Experience **Tech Lab Journal** To support engagement and learning during each VR session, ask students to maintain a Tech Lab Journal. This journal can be a small notebook, a stapled packet, a digital document or use the worksheet provided (see exemplar for further guidance). The Vocational Pathways Worksheet Exemplar draws on the Welding and Intro to Construction simulations as detailed case studies. While these examples focus on specific experiences, the model student responses are representative of reflections, observations, vocabulary and presentations expected across all of the Vocational Pathways content. After completing each VR session, students should take a few minutes to reflect and add to their journal, noting the date and which lesson they completed. Other suggested journal entries include: - Key Vocabulary – Identify new terms and/or technical language that was introduced, along with definitions for each. - Sketches or Diagrams – Create simple sketches of tools, systems, processes, and/or machines students interacted with, along with labels for the whole and its parts. - Notice and Wonder – Take note of interesting moments or surprising results students noticed, as well as questions they are curious about. These should be written as “I noticed...” and “I wonder ...” statements. # After the Experience **KWL Chart** To follow up, ask students to complete the L (What I Learned) section, reflecting on what they learned during the session. - Identify at least three things that you learned about the industry, technology, concepts or career.{.task} # Extended Learning **Job Quest: Explore an Entry-Level Career Role** Students are then encouraged to continue their learning by researching what an entry-level position in this career field looks like. This exploration makes learning more personal and purposeful, helping students consider future career opportunities. Even if they decide this career is not a good fit, the process builds career awareness, critical thinking, and allows the student to take ownership of their learning. Ask students to research the following: - Job Description - Tools and Skills Needed - Education and/or Training Needed - Salary and Job Outlook - Work Environment Ask students to create a visual summary of their research. Consider giving them a choice to create a slide presentation, one-pager, infographic, short video, or use another appropriate presentation method. # Reflection Ask students to write a reflection. Based on their VR experience and research, would they consider this career? Why or why not? # How To View Student Analytics 1. Log in to [VictoryXR Teacher Portal](https://account.victoryxr.com/home) 1. Results can be viewed under "Educator Center" For full set-up instructions, including video walkthroughs and support documents, please visit our support pages [ClassVR Support](https://www.classvr.com/)