Case Studies on Metaverse-Driven Pedagogical Innovation in Chinese Vocational Education

In the era of digital-intelligent integration, Chinese vocational colleges are leveraging metaverse technologies to address the dual challenges of constrained practical training resources and high-risk operational environments, initiating a profound digital transformation. This chapter systematically explores the localized implementation pathways of metaverse technologies in China’s vocational education sector through four real-world case studies. Shanghai Nanhu Vocational and Technical College (SNVTC) established a “5G+XR” virtual simulation training base for new energy vehicles. By integrating virtual simulation and digital twin technologies, the college resolved the “three highs and three difficulties” (high cost, high risk, high complexity; difficulty in demonstration, operation, and assessment) in traditional automotive repair education, achieving safe and efficient immersive training. Shandong Vocational University of Foreign Affairs (SVUOFA) developed the “Metaverse Campus” platform, which combines blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), and digital twin technologies to build an intelligent campus management system. This system enhances teaching efficiency, administrative effectiveness, and service quality while exploring dynamic evaluation frameworks and personalized feedback mechanisms. Yibin Vocational Technical College (YBVT) centered its efforts on the “334N” development framework, leveraging high-standard digital infrastructure to deploy metaverse technologies. Through industry–academia collaboration, the college established the “Craftsmanship in Liquor Brewing” virtual training base, addressing talent shortages in the liquor brewing industry. Shenzhen Polytechnic University (SZPU) innovated a metaverse job fair model by utilizing virtual exhibition halls and digital portfolio showcases. This approach redefined student–employer interactions, shifting from “exhibition-based learning” to industry–education synergy. These cases demonstrate the metaverse’s potential in reconstructing pedagogical scenarios, optimizing training workflows, fostering industry–academia integration, and enhancing employment services. They also highlight critical practical challenges, including technological costs, data privacy concerns, and standardization requirements. Future advancements in technology and policy support may unlock new possibilities for metaverse-driven innovation in Chinese vocational education.