DATE:
January 27-31, 2025
Venue:
Nakhon Ratchasima College of Business Administration and Tourism, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
Type:
In-Country Program
PARTNER ORGANIZATION:
Colombo Plan Staff College, and
Office of the Vocational Education Commission(OVEC),
Ministry of Education, Thailand

Background

The rapid evolution of technology is reshaping education and workforce development globally, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is no exception. As industries adopt cutting-edge tools and methods under the influence of Industry 4.0, there is a growing need for vocational training systems to evolve and align with these advancements. One of the most transformative shifts in this domain is the integration of Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) into training programs. These immersive technologies are not just innovations; they are revolutionary tools that enable TVET to bridge the skills gap, enhance safety, and prepare learners for a highly dynamic and technology-driven workforce.

VR, AR, and MR redefine the learning experience by offering learners the ability to engage with realistic, interactive simulations that mirror real-world scenarios. Unlike traditional training methods, these technologies provide a risk-free environment for learners to practice high-stakes tasks, such as operating heavy machinery, performing medical procedures, or troubleshooting electrical systems. AR adds another dimension by overlaying digital information onto the physical world, enabling real-time guidance and enhancing hands-on learning. Meanwhile, MR combines physical and digital environments, allowing seamless interaction between virtual elements and real-world objects, thus creating a holistic and engaging educational experience.

The adoption of these technologies in TVET also addresses critical challenges, such as the lack of access to advanced equipment and the need for scalable training solutions. For instance, VR can simulate industrial setups that would otherwise be costly or impractical to replicate in a classroom. Additionally, these tools contribute to sustainability by reducing resource consumption and waste associated with traditional training methods. By leveraging immersive technologies, TVET can ensure quality education while promoting environmental and economic sustainability.

Beyond their technical benefits, the integration of VR, AR, and MR in TVET represents a shift toward inclusivity and accessibility. With digital tools, learners from remote or underserved regions can access the same high-quality training as their urban counterparts. Furthermore, the immersive nature of these technologies fosters deeper engagement and retention, equipping students with both technical skills and confidence.

This digital embracement in TVET is not just about technology; it is about shaping the future of education and ensuring that no learner is left behind. By creating an ecosystem where education keeps pace with industrial demands, VR, AR, and MR empower TVET institutions to produce a workforce that is skilled, adaptable, and ready for the challenges of tomorrow. The journey toward this future is a collaborative one, involving educators, industry leaders, and policymakers, all of whom play a critical role in realizing the potential of these transformative technologies. It is imperative to promote sustainable development initiatives and strategies, as demonstrated by initiatives of the Ministry of Human Resources and Education in Thailand.

CPSC, through programs like the regional and in-country program on ‘Digital Embracement for the Future in VR, AR, and MR in TVET’, plays a crucial role in advancing this agenda. By providing resources, ideas, and strategies, such a program empowers those involved in training and development to meet the learning needs of today and the future, ultimately contributing to sustainable development. CPSC, as an intergovernmental organization, and OVEC, as a leader in TVET in Thailand, aim to support the UN agenda through programs for sustainable development. These initiatives raise awareness and provide the necessary skills and values to implement sustainable development in TVET systems. They also support administrators in adopting climate-friendly operations and pedagogical approaches that ultimately promote environmental sustainability.


Objectives

The program aims to empower participants with knowledge and practical insights into leveraging Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). It seeks to enhance skills development, promote sustainable training practices, and foster collaboration among educators, industry leaders, and policymakers for future-ready workforce preparation.

The participants are expected to:

  • Understand the significance of VR, AR, and MR in modernizing TVET programs.
  • Explore the role of immersive technologies in enhancing experiential learning.
  • Learn how to integrate VR, AR, and MR into diverse vocational training curricula.
  • Analyze successful global case studies of digital transformation in TVET.
  • Develop strategies to address challenges in adopting immersive technologies.
  • Foster collaboration to build a sustainable and inclusive TVET ecosystem.

Expected Output and Outcomes

The expected outputs of the program are:

  • Increased awareness of VR, AR, and MR technologies and their applications in TVET.
  • Practical understanding of creating and delivering immersive training modules.
  • Strategies developed for integrating immersive technologies into TVET institutions.
  • Enhanced skills among educators to utilize VR, AR, and MR in teaching.
  • Actionable plans for sustainable and inclusive adoption of digital tools in TVET.
  • Strengthened collaborations between educators, industry leaders, and policymakers.
  • Insights gained from global success stories to replicate in local TVET contexts.

The participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively utilize SWOT and PESTEL analysis in determining the issues and challenges of Digital Embracement for the Future in VR, AR, and MR in TVET. Additionally, participants will appreciate the importance and concepts of digital education and training for sustainable development in the TVET Institute.


Program Contents

To achieve the objectives set forth, the following strategies will be employed in a consultative manner:

Theme papers and presentations on the following:

  • Special Lecture: Achieving the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through TVET
  • Presentation 1: The Future of TVET by Harnessing the Power of VR, AR, and MR
  • Theme Paper 1: Bridging the Skills Gap with Immersive Learning Technologies
  • Theme Paper 2: Designing the Classroom of Tomorrow: Integrating VR, AR, and MR in TVET
  • Theme Paper 3: Overcoming Barriers: Implementing Immersive Technologies in TVET
  • Theme Paper 4: The Role of Immersive Technologies in Ensuring Safety and Efficiency in Training
  • Theme Paper 5: Beyond the Headset: Exploring the Next Frontier in Immersive Technologies
  • Theme Paper 6: The Ethical and Social Implications of Immersive Technologies in TVET

Exercises & workshops:

  • Workshop 1: TVET Institute for Next Generation Environment
  • Workshop 2: Crafting Immersive Learning Content for TVET: Tools and Techniques
  • Workshop 3: Preparing Educators' Framework for the Digital Shift in TVET

National Seminar on "Next Generation of Technology for Sustainable TVET"

  • Technical Session 1: Keynote Presentation: Personalized Learning in TVET: Leveraging AI with VR, AR, and MR: followed by presentation of selected papers by participants
  • Technical Session 2: Keynote Presentation: Industry Partnerships: Driving Innovation in TVET with VR, AR, and MR: followed by presentation of selected papers by participants
  • Technical Session 3: Keynote Presentation: Global Perspectives: Lessons from Early Adopters of Immersive Technologies in TVET: followed by presentation of selected papers by participants
  • Session 4: Plenary Session

Participants' Profile

The in-country program is designed for college directors, deputy college directors, assistant college directors, administrators, teachers, instructors, lecturers, and educational persons related to TVET Authority in one way or another.


Date and Venue

The five-day meeting and workshop will be held from January 27 to 31, 2024, at the Nakhon Ratchasima College of Business Administration and Tourism in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.


Facilities Requirements

To conduct the program smoothly, the following facilities are required:

  • Laptop computers (preferably participants to bring their laptop)
  • Internet Connection (LAN/WAN)
  • Audio and Video Equipment
  • Multimedia Projector and Projection Screen

Instructional Strategies

To achieve the intended outcome, the following strategies will be adopted during the training program:

  • Blended learning includes face-to-face (F2F) and special lectures, video presentations, and interactive web-based teaching and learning systems.
  • Web-based teaching and learning system
  • Computer hands-on experience
  • Practice sessions
  • Individual or group tasks and discussions
  • Field/Study visits
  • Group tasks and discussions
  • Presentations and experience sharing
  • Icebreakers and mind-relaxing games
  • Project work and presentations

Program Management and Resource Persons

Program Supervisor Dr. Suresh Kumar Dhameja
Director General
Colombo Plan Staff College
Bldg. Blk. C, DepEd Complex, Meralco Avenue
Pasig City 1600, Metro Manila, Philippines
Email: [email protected]


Program Supervisor Mr. Yodsapol Venukosess
Secretary-General
Office of the Vocational Education Commission (OVEC)
Ministry of Education
Ratchadamnoen Nok Rd., Dusit Dist.
Bangkok 10300, Thailand
Email: [email protected]


Program Coordinator and Resource Person Engr. Dr. Mian Khuram Ahsan
Director Academics/Operations
Former CPSC Senior Faculty Specialist
KP-TEVTA Peshawar
KP-TEVTA Head Office Sector E-8
Phase-7 near Hajj Complex Hayyatabad
Peshawar, Pakistan
Email: [email protected]


Program Local Coordinator Mr. Laksasak Yangsaman
Policy and Planning Analyst
Bureau of Policy and Planning
Office of the Vocational Education Commission (OVEC)
Ministry of Education.
Ratchadamnoen Nok Rd., Dusit Dist.
Bangkok 10300, Thailand
Email: [email protected]


Resource Person Dr. Thanasarn Rujira
Supervisor, Senior Professional Level
Supervisory Unit
Office of the Vocational Education Commission (OVEC)
Ministry of Education
Ratchadamnoen Nok Rd., Dusit Dist.
Bangkok 10300, Thailand


Resource Person Dr. Arthit Kleebrung
Teacher, Senior Professional Level
Khonkaen Vocational College
Thailand


Resource Person Mr. Brad Ker
Director Digital Programs – Labtech International
General Manager – Labtech Academy
Factory and Development Center
Sekupang Industrial Park Kavling 34
Sekupang, Batam, Indonesia 29428
Email: [email protected]


National Conference Keynote Speakers


Conference Speaker Mr. Hidayat Mercado
Regional Manager
Asean and Oceania
SEABERY SOLUCIONES SL.
C/Doctor Emilio Haya Prats, 13. 21005 Huelva. Spain
Email: [email protected]


Conference Speaker Dr. Steven McKee
President
Labtech International Ltd.
Factory and Development Center
Sekupang Industrial Park Kavling 34
Sekupang, Batam, Indonesia 29428
Email: [email protected]


Program Schedule