JIBC fire investigation training goes digital with new computer simulated experience

June 9, 2022, B.C. — The Justice Institute of British Columbia’s (JIBC) has developed a new gamified learning experience with the aim to better prepare students to investigate fires.

The new fire investigation simulator, dubbed FlashoVR, is a training experience that uses scenarios found in a 3D video game format. This format allows for real-world experience in a safe environment.

It was designed to give students an opportunity to learn and practice their investigation skills. The simulators online format allows for increased accessibility.

Students can also use the simulator to repeatedly practice processes, to help create muscle memory.

Students of the graduate-level program at the Centre for Digital Media developed the program in partnership with JIBC’s Fire & Safety Division and Centre for Teaching, Learning & Innovation (CTLI), and subject matter experts from District of North Vancouver Fire & Rescue Services (DNVFRS).

The project recently won a gold 2021 Horizon Interactive Award in the Training/E-Learning website category. The international awards competition recognizes the best in several mediums including websites and website design, videos, online advertising, print media, and mobile applications.

The tool has been piloted and will be used in future offerings of JIBC’s FIRE-1270 Fire Cause & Origin 1 course.