Abstract:

The integration of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in Vocational Education and Training (VET) offers a safe and highly immersive environment for technical training. However, developing custom immersive applications traditionally requires advanced programming skills, posing a significant barrier for educators. Framed within the "Laboratorio de tecnologías inmersivas" project, promoted and funded by the Spanish Ministry of Education, Vocational Training, and Sports, this action-research paper explores how Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) can democratize the creation of AR and VR Serious Games. This approach empowers teachers and students to transition from passive consumers to active "prosumers" of educational content.

This study outlines an innovative, AI-assisted workflow to develop a mechanical assembly simulator for VR headsets, without requiring manual coding expertise. The methodology begins with the optimization of industrial CAD models using open-source tools like Blender to ensure real-time rendering performance. Subsequently, within the Unity engine, GenAI tools are utilized via "prompt engineering" to generate functional C# scripts. The AI acts as a programming assistant to implement complex interactive behaviors and mechanics.

The practical use case involves a VET student interacting within a virtual workshop to assemble a mechanical puzzle. To enhance student motivation and engagement, the GenAI also assisted in scripting gamification mechanics, such as interactive "snap zones", time-attack challenges, and immediate audio-visual feedback.

The results demonstrate that GenAI significantly lowers the technical barriers to entry, allowing educators to focus on instructional design and gamified mechanics rather than syntax errors. Ultimately, this research provides a scalable and accessible framework for integrating advanced immersive technologies into VET, encouraging hands-on practice in a risk-free digital environment.

Keywords:

Generative AI, Unity, Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Vocational Education and Training (VET), Serious Games, Blender.