Virtual Reality Simulators in the Training Process for Forestry Operators: Current State-of-art, challenges, and Future Perspectives

This study examines the adaptation, benefits, and limitations of virtual reality (VR) in education, focusing on the forestry sector by underlining VR simulators as key tools for training and learning, offering immersive experiences with controlled interactions. Simulators ensure trainees safety, facilitate training in risky conditions, improve performance by 15%, reduce repair and maintenance costs by 30%; in clear-cutting, efficiency and productivity were increased by more than 50% compared to the real machine, making them essential elements of modern learning. The study emphasizes the importance of the pre-training, training, and transition phases, describing how learning takes place and how it facilitates the development of abilities. The influence of VR on physical and mental health and the possible side effects that may arise during or after its use are mentioned. Also, some factors that can influence short- and long-term learning with VR, as well as in the real world are presented. This systematic review of the literature synthesizes studies extracted from various databases, addressing critical concepts of learning in virtual environments, such as learning curves, the use of VR simulators, operators’ skills and challenges, as well as the impact of their implementation. It presents the limitations and difficulties in using simulators for training forestry operators and the need for further research on the long-term impact of VR. The article highlights the importance of integrating AR and MR as complementary technologies for more accurate visualization and informed decision-making. The study explores the prospects for future generations of forestry practices, and accentuates the importance of implementing simulators and acquiring new advanced skills and techniques. Shortcomings that require further research are identified, especially with regard to trainees and their virtual reality training process, the application of VR in health, and the transfer of knowledge to the real world.