Self-efficacy refers to an individual’s belief in his/her capacity to perform a target behavior and reach specific goals (Bandura, 2004). Research has suggested that the stronger the individuals’ perceptions of self-efficacy, the more active efforts they would attempt. Although university students have ample amount of exposure to technology and are assumed to be technology savvy, they may not be technically proficient with 3D/virtual applications (Gu et al., 2013). To meet the workforce demands of technology-capable employees, educators need to prepare students in 3D/virtual technology use (Hodges et al., 2020). The purpose of the study was to examine how university students respond to various education modules which were designed to improve their technology self-efficacy, specifically in relation to 3D/virtual technologies applicable in the apparel and textiles industry. Following the conceptual framework for Teaching Virtual/3D Technology (VT) in Apparel and Textiles (TVTAV), education modules in areas such as retailing, visual merchandising and promotion, and product development were developed and delivered to apparel and merchandising students at three US universities. Data from a short survey to 20 undergraduate students and interviews with 10 undergraduate students, who participated in the various education modules during the years of 2021 to 2023 were collected. Participants reported stronger sense of ability to apply their learning of 3D/virtual technologies from those education modules to future courses, internships, and careers. Further, participants indicated that instructors, teaching assistants, and peers acted as social influencers in their perceptions of success in learning 3D/virtual technology related materials and in developing problem-solving skills.

Authors:
Ruoh-Nan Yan, Colorado State University, United States
Nancy Hodges, University of North Carolina, United States
Kittichai Watchravesringkan, University of North Carolina, United States
Julie Chang, Texas Tech University, United States
Julie Maertens, Colorado State University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Ruoh-Nan (Terry) Yan is currently a professor in the Department of Design and Merchandising at Colorado State University, USA.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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