Insights on virtual reality adoption for construction workers’ training in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Low skills are evident in the Zimbabwean construction industry. While virtual reality (VR) is a possible solution, there is limited evidence of how it can significantly enhance construction workers’ skills. Hence, this study examined key stakeholder insights into VR adoption and how it can enhance construction workers’ skills. A positivist approach was used, and questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data from building contractors and technical and vocational training centres. The data was analysed using mean ranks, mean scores, standard deviation, and Spearman’s correlation. Results showed stakeholders’ similar perceptions towards VR adoption. Building firm professionals are, however, more aware of VR than lecturers. Conversely, lecturers placed more importance on VR adoption. Stakeholders deem all features of VR to be critical for training. Furthermore, stakeholders believe that adopting VR in training positively impacts improving construction workers’ skills. Recommendations include fostering collaboration among stakeholders to encourage the adoption and usage of VR. The benefits of VR adoption include enhanced workers’ skills critical for productivity improvement and training institutions’ improvement of content delivery methods and curricula meeting industry needs. The limitation of the study was the lack of a qualitative inquiry; however, further studies can implement mixed methods for a broader analysis.