Revolutionizing Aviation Education: Integrating Virtual Reality into Runway Light Prototype Development at Makassar Aviation Polytechnic

Abstract

This research endeavors to design, develop, and test a Virtual Reality (VR) runway light application prototype as a practicum tool at Makassar Aviation Polytechnic. The primary objective of this application is to overcome the limitations of existing runway light practice tools, which are currently only accessible in a restricted area of Sultan Hasanuddin Airport. The research methodology employed is Research and Development (R&D), specifically the 4D development model, comprising Define, Design, Develop, and Disseminate stages. A needs analysis was conducted during the define stage through a comprehensive literature review, observation, and interviews with lecturers and students. The design stage involved designing the user interface and application structure, whereas the development stage entailed creating 3D models of runway light equipment and developing interactive features of the application. The disseminate stage comprised testing the application with students and distributing usage guides. The development results indicate that the VR runway light application successfully created a realistic and interactive simulation environment. The pilot test revealed that 83.33% of students "strongly agreed" and 16.67% "agreed" regarding the ease of use aspect. In terms of movement accuracy, 45.83% of students "strongly agreed," 41.67% "agreed," and 12.5% "moderately agreed." Furthermore, 66.66% of students "strongly agreed," 16.67% "agreed," and 16.67% "moderately agreed" that the application increased their competence. This study concludes that the VR runway light application is an effective practicum aid, enhancing students' understanding and skills in installing and dismantling runway light equipment. Recommendations for future development include improving movement accuracy, incorporating additional interactive features, and testing the application in other educational institutions to further validate its effectiveness.