3d-Trainer boosts skills development

Johannesburg, 07 Feb 2005

A local company, the Naledi3d Factory, is using ICT to overcome the traditional constraints that language and literacy impose on the issue of skills development in an increasingly complex manufacturing environment.

Based at the Innovation Hub science and technology park established by Blue IQ, Naledi3d has developed the 3d-Trainer.

The concept uses realistic interactive 3D imagery, based on virtual reality, and builds visually interactive training modules to help address many aspects of industrial training in industry.

"With the 3d-Trainer, a learner can interact on-screen with a realistic model of a particular machine, device, component, or part and be shown correct use, assembly or disassembly procedures. In terms of safe training, this is the best safety practice available," says Naledi3d's MD Dave Lockwood.

"The most powerful aspect of 3d-Trainer is its visual nature, as learners can 'see and do' through an interactive learning mode that shows the consequences of making mistakes, albeit in a simulated environment."

He says that instead of teaching people in what is often their third or even fourth language, the product's visual imagery overcomes language and even literacy barriers in a way that is non-threatening and easy to use.

Lockwood believes the key potential behind the product lies in the fact that a learner can be shown the correct process or best practice, while also providing feedback during the learning process.

"Not only can the learners be shown, but they can also do and see the consequences of making mistakes in what is a safe and clean environment," he says.

"Among its better features are the fact that it is PC-based; can support other training methods; can include self-assessment and progress monitoring options; is customisable (such as language, branding, text and audiovisual components); and it allows the learner to determine their own pace of learning."

Lockwood claims that 3d-Trainer can be effectively applied in numerous fields, including skills development, adult-based education and training, and occupational health and safety.