The College of Aeronautics and Engineering (CAE) is thrilled to announce the integration of virtual reality (VR) technology into its senior-level Professional Pilot course, AERN 45730 Applied Transport Category Aircraft Systems. This progressive course, which examines the systems used in air transport aircraft and focuses intently on the Boeing 737 (B737), prepares students on the principles and operations they will soon encounter as professional pilots in airlines, cargo operations, and business aviation. Students will utilize B737 flight deck familiarization modules, as well as checklist and procedures training and assessment modules developed by VTR VR, to augment traditional learning materials, enhancing their grasp. The fall 2023 class is set to complete an oral exam in a VR environment using X-Plane, a first and exciting step toward the incorporation of previously inaccessible flight decks in a thoroughly immersive manner.
The introduction of the B737 VTR VR training modules and VR flight deck in spring 2023 was met with enthusiastic reception from the students. 鈥淭he VR training would be extremely helpful for not only [the air transport class], which requires us to memorize where certain items are in the flight deck; this would also be helpful in preparation for airline training,鈥 remarked one insightful student. The majority echoed this sentiment, appreciating the realism and immersive qualities of the virtual flight decks, which fostered a hands-on approach to learning, solidifying their understanding and retention of complex systems.
Amidst this integration, Jim Sebastian, a seasoned professor at CAE and a Captain with Southwest Airlines, shares his perspective on the initiative. "While immersed in the virtual flight deck, students will be trained and evaluated on their knowledge of aircraft systems and procedures while experiencing all the realistic issues, distractions, and additive conditions that come with being a professional pilot. They will be tasked with applying their systems knowledge and managing normal flight deck tasks while assessing and mitigating risk using all available resources, simulating the type of training they'll receive in a professional airline training course. The VR is a realistic simulation that will both challenge and train the students. VR is the future of education and training, and I'm looking forward to using this tool in my class as a baseline to expand to other courses," remarked Sebastian.
To oversee the successful implementation of the VR programs, Dr. Stephanie Fussell is collaborating closely with Capt. Jim Sebastian. Together, they aim to ensure that this innovative technology significantly enhances learning outcomes. The partnership between the CAE and VTR, first announced in June of 2023, has paved the way for an enriching educational experience. The VTR VR products, along with various other VR aviation and engineering education and training opportunities, are available to the CAE's student community at the XR (Extended Reality) Research Lab. Formerly located at the FedEx Aeronautics Academic Center (FAAC) at the Kent State Airport, the lab was recently relocated to the Aeronautics and Engineering Building expansion this fall semester. Drs. Fussell and Kwasa, lead research faculty in the lab, welcome the collaboration with VTR and other industry leaders to heighten experiential learning opportunities for CAE students.
For more information, please contact Dr. Fussel at sfussel2@kent.edu.