INNOVATION AND DIFFUSION OF THE SWANSOFT CNC SIMULATOR IN CNC LEARNING AND THE POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT OF VIRTUAL REALITY
Keywords:
CNC Learning, Swansoft CNC Simulator, Diffusion of Innovation, Virtual Reality, Vocational EducationAbstract
The advancement of manufacturing technology has increased the importance of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) competencies in engineering and vocational education. However, limited access to physical CNC machines and high operational costs remain significant challenges in CNC learning. The Swansoft CNC Simulator has emerged as an innovative solution that enables students to learn CNC programming and machine operation in a safe, flexible, and virtual learning environment. This study employed a quantitative approach using a survey method. Data were collected through a questionnaire administered to 32 students who had experience using the Swansoft CNC Simulator in CNC learning activities. The research instrument was developed based on Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovation Theory, encompassing five key attributes: Relative Advantage, Compatibility, Complexity, Trialability, and Observability. The collected data were analyzed descriptively using frequencies, percentages, and mean scores. The results revealed that most students perceived the Swansoft CNC Simulator as highly beneficial in improving their understanding of CNC programming and machine operation. The findings also indicated a high level of technology adoption among students, although several challenges related to compatibility with individual learning preferences and perceived complexity were identified. Furthermore, the study demonstrated that Virtual Reality (VR) technology has considerable potential to enhance the effectiveness of CNC learning, as most students expressed strong interest in integrating VR into CNC simulation environments. The study concludes that the Swansoft CNC Simulator contributes positively to learning effectiveness, reduces the risk of errors during CNC training, and enriches students’ learning experiences. The integration of Virtual Reality is recommended as an innovative approach to support more realistic, immersive, and effective simulation-based CNC learning
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