Last year in RoVE News we reported that Industry Connection for Excellence (ICE), a registered private training establishment servicing the plumbing, gasfitting, and drainlaying sector, was preparing to use Microsoft’s HoloLens® in its training delivery.

ICE has now started developing practical training and learning guides for Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying (PGD) Level 4 apprentices using the platform, which combines mixed reality (a blend of holograms and actual products) viewed via a headset. 

It enables trainees to work through complex subjects independently, and at their own speed, with an array of information digitally available to them. 

So far ICE has developed 13 guides, primarily in the complex gas subject area, and has seen trainees grasp the ‘proof of concept’ quickly, and competently complete the associated assessments in less time than previously.  ICE says it’s seen the technology working well for most trainees, and in particular, trainees with learning difficulties.

With the assistance of TEC strategic funding approved late last year, ICE has been able to speed up this development through the establishment of a project team with subject matter experts and content developers. This will introduce HoloLens® as a standard teaching tool across the level 4 programme and benefit all trainees with better learning outcomes, faster progress with assessments and overall faster completion rates.

You can find out more on the Industry Connection for Excellence website.

HoloLens® in action (Photo: Skills Consulting Group)