An Investigation of Virtual Reality Initiatives and Workforce Development
Primary Investigator: Chaney Mosley Additional PIs: Kevin Ragland; Mary Ellen Sloane; Ying Jin Sponsor: Institute of Museum and Library Services Sponsor Award Number: LG-254869-OLS-23 Overview: Middle Tennessee State University will conduct applied research to investigate virtual reality career exploration and training initiatives in libraries and their role in yielding positive workforce outcomes for patrons. The project will partner with public libraries in economically distressed, at-risk, and transitioning areas, providing them with VR technology equipped with workforce simulations. The project will survey and interview library patrons, staff, and stakeholders about their experiences with VR programming, including ways in which the experience may be associated with workforce outcomes (e.g., technical skills, industry credentials, new employment). The project anticipates producing publications, presentations, podcasts, testimonies, and a best practice guide to help share results and promote widespread adoption of VR programming in libraries for workforce development, benefiting under skilled library patrons and staff, employers, and communities.
MTSU-led $550K federal grant funds rural libraries’ virtual reality training to help patrons explore career possibilities
[March 2024] MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Through a three-year, nearly $550,000 federal grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and managed by Middle Tennessee State University, six rural Tennessee libraries will utilize virtual reality training to help their community residents explore employment opportunities. Continue to Story
Simulations Available
Career Exploration
All 6 participating libraries have Career Exploration simulations available.
The career simulations provide VR users with an immersive learning experience. Users can explore different career paths on a comprehensive career development platform. These simulations are between 4 to 6 minutes long and are available with closed captions. Many are also available in Spanish.
Career paths available in Career Exploration simulations:
The training simulations show VR users how to do the job tasks, allowing them to acquire job training skills and work up to achieving certifications. These are hands-on learning experiences guided by a virtual instructor. Users can develop the fundamental skills putting them ahead when they are applying for certain careers. In the training facility each career is divided into more specific simulations, these can be between 5 to 25 minutes long.
Career training available in the Virtual Training Facility simulations:
Manufacturing and Construction
Plant Safety
Construction Safety
Precision Measurement
Blueprint Reading
Mechatronics
Paint Robot Troubleshooting
Electrical Fundamentals
Hospitality and Tourism
Hospitality Soft Skills
Intro to Culinary Arts and Basic Baking
Automotive
Automotive Fundamentals
Auto Body/ Collision Repair
Precision Measurement
Electrical Fundamentals
Plant Safety
Diesel Technology
Diesel Vehicle Maintenance
Diesel Engine Overhaul
Precision Measurement
Electrical Fundamentals
Aviation Maintenance
General Skills
Airframe Skills
Powerplant Skills
Precision Measurement
Electrical Fundamentals
Electrical Construction
VTF Electrical Construction
Precision Measurement
Electrical Fundamentals
Plant Safety
Blueprint Reading
Construction Safety
Mechatronics
Where can I access all of these simulations?
Please see our Library Partners to find the library closest to you and try VR today!
Altamont, and neighboring town Coalmont, personnel
Manual for Participating Libraries
Content coming soon.
There are six counties across Tennessee where you can access these interactive virtual reality simulations. By using the virtual reality technology you can immerse yourself in different careers in a risk-free environment and try them on for size! You can explore career paths that can connect you to well-paying and high-demand jobs.
People at all ages can use the VR technology, but there are some safety warnings. Please see the FAQ section for those warnings. Specifically, if you are prone to seizures or dizziness please take caution.
Visit your local or neighboring library and try it out today!
Who can and cannot use the Virtual Reality headsets?
How can I enroll in an OSHA 10 General Industry Course?
Middle Tennessee State University has partnered with libraries across the state to make job training more accessible. After completing modules in the VR, the user will be able to enroll in an OSHA 10 General Industry course and gain another step-up as they seek jobs, re-enter the workforce, or transition careers. Your library site will be able to help you get enrolled in the OSHA 10 course provided by MTSU.
Virtual Reality for Workforce Development in Tennessee – Training, March 11, 2024.
