Practical experience is an essential part of every training program. Trainees at the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (BAZG) also gain hands-on experience as part of their education and practice directly at the border to learn how customs inspections work. They are guided by instructors through all stages of work in passenger and goods traffic and train using real cases.
This type of training is ideal for practicing everyday tasks and routines, but it is also time-consuming and costly. In addition, not all cases that should be practiced can be realistically recreated, such as smuggled goods, emergencies, or other exceptional situations. Furthermore, trainees can only practice hands-on when they are assigned to an operation.
Virtual Reality (VR) brings the border to the trainees. Together with FOCBS, IRRL is developing a learning environment in which trainees can learn and practice all important procedures at a virtual border. For example, passport and goods inspections, vehicle inspections, and many other aspects can be practiced repeatedly until trainees feel confident. The experience is embedded in a game-like environment in which trainees can progress and are motivated to achieve good results.
Project Data
| Project Type | Research |
| Duration | January 2024 – ongoing |
| Project Partner | BAZG (Bundesamt für Zoll- und Grenzsicherheit) Immersive Realities IR |
| Funding | BAZG |
| Project Team | André Thomas, Dario Lanfranconi, Tobias Kreienbühl, Jacob Lenzen, Janina Woods, Emanuele D’Arrigo |