CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE BODY OF KNOWLEDGE

45 Augmented Virtuality Environment Safety (SAVES (2) reinforced the system with energy- based retrieval mnemonics and serious gaming attributes to establish an active platform for effective training and (3) measured improvement caused by the strategy by conducting a multiple baseline experiment. This is the first attempt to develop a comprehensive training protocol to improve hazard recognition skill and is the first effort to measure the impact of a human-centric augmented virtuality tool on adult learning. Additionally, this is one of the first experimental field tests ever conducted in the construction industry with objective field experimental methods.
RESEARCH METHODS
We achieved the objectives of this study in two distinct phases. In the first phase, we developed SAVES based on established theory from the field of education, psychology, and behavioral science such as serious game theory and energy-based retrieval mnemonics. In the second phase, we experimentally field tested SAVES and measured the resulting improvement in hazard-signal detection. In other words, in the second phase, we focused on testing the null hypothesis that
SAVES and its underlying learning constructs does not cause an improvement the proportion of
hazards identified and discussed prior to initiating work.

In an effort to enhance the practical contributions of the study we formed an expert panel of safety professionals who represent organizations with world-class safety records. In addition to five researchers from three universities, our research team consisted of fourteen highly experienced professionals with extensive knowledge in construction safety. Each expert member had over 10 years of construction safety management experience and, on average, 25 years of

46 experience. Five members were Certified Hazardous Materials Managers (CHMM) and seven members were Certified Safety Professionals (CSP). In addition, several members held various licenses and certifications, such as Certified Industrial Hygienists (CIH), Compliance Safety and Health Officers (CSHO), Occupational Health and Safety Technologists (OSHT), Professional Engineers (PE, and others. Also, individuals were actively involved in various health and safety societies and committees which included American Society of Safety Engineers, National Safety Council, Accident Prevention Association and various local safety counsels. Five members obtained a master’s degree and six obtained bachelor’s degrees in relevant fields such as construction engineering and management, occupational safety and health, and civil engineering. In short, the research team was well-qualified, and significantly exceeded the requirements of traditional expert panel recommended in literature (Hallowell and Gambatese 2009).

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