The use of ACT-UK virtual reality simulation centre to enhance the learning experience of undergraduate building students

The National Centre for Advanced Construction Technology (ACT-UK), based at Coventry University, is a newly established construction management simulation centre. The aim of this research is to investigate the possible role of ACT-UK in the undergraduate Building degree curriculum at Coventry University. Case study methods are adopted and include questionnaire surveys and interviews of construction employers, students and academics to develop a proposal for the possible use of the new simulation centre. The analysis indicates a high degree of enthusiasm for the use of the new simulation centre, but also raises issues regarding its cost and the ease with which it can be embedded into the current curriculum. Following on from the analysis, an outline of a programme that meets the needs of all parties is presented. The case study offers a lesson for the adoption of an innovative new learning technology to enhance the student learning experience within a higher education context.