Virtual Simulation Program to Enhance Learning of Bomb Calorimeter Operation for Engineering Education

บทคัดย่อ

This study aimed to develop and evaluate a virtual simulation-based learning program for bomb calorimeter operation to enhance practical learning in thermal technology courses. The program was developed using Unity and Vuforia platforms, based on the ADDIE instructional design model and grounded in Constructivist Learning Theory and Multimedia Learning Theory. The participants were 18 fourth-year students majoring in Mechanical Technology Education. Research instruments included the virtual simulation program, an expert evaluation form, and a user satisfaction questionnaire. The expert evaluation indicated that the developed program achieved a very good level of quality, with mean scores of X̄ = 4.50, S.D. = 0.50 for content quality and X̄ = 4.50, S.D. = 0.40 for media design. User satisfaction was rated high (X̄ = 4.20, S.D. = 0.00). A paired-sample t-test revealed a statistically significant improvement in post-test scores compared to pre-test scores (p < 0.05), confirming that the virtual simulation effectively enhanced students’ conceptual understanding of energy analysis and combustion processes. In conclusion, the developed virtual simulation serves as a high-quality instructional tool that reduces the limitations of real laboratory practice in terms of safety, time, and cost. It also supports flexible, self-directed learning and can be applied to thermal energy-related courses. Future developments may include integrating interactive quizzes or augmented reality (AR) features to further enrich engagement and the overall learning experience.