The Erasmus+ project XRGREEN.CON focuses on integrating extended reality (XR) technologies into vocational education and training (VET) for the construction sector, with an emphasis on promoting circular economy practices and environmental sustainability. By leveraging augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) gamified simulations, the project aims to provide hands-on, immersive learning experiences for construction professionals, enabling them to better understand and implement green practices within the industry.

Key project activities include:
1) Identifying skills needs related to XR and environmental protection within the construction sector.
2) Developing curriculum for vocational trainers.
3) Creating virtual and augmented reality scenarios for learners focusing on green topics.
4) Promoting the green and digital transition through XR tools in construction education.

The project is innovative in its approach, particularly in addressing the gap in using XR for vocational training in construction sectors from European Qualification Framework (EQF) levels 3 to 5. It distinguishes itself by allowing trainers, without advanced CAD or programming skills, to design and create XR-based educational content focused on waste valorization and circular economy concepts. Additionally, the project emphasizes the integration of environmental protection practices in all training exercises.

This paper will present the results from the Didactic Guidelines work package, focusing on two main objectives:
1) Understanding the EU academic landscape for VET and higher education curricula related to construction (EQF 3-5), and identifying how XR can support circular economy topics.
2) Identifying the skills needs in the labor market through direct stakeholder engagement.
3) Review of research papers that are centred on the use of XR in the construction industry and related educational fields, especially topics of waste management and circular economy.

Through these objectives, the project aims to develop a continuous curriculum for vocational trainers that will incorporate XR and human-centered design methodologies. The results will culminate in a course curriculum for trainers, incorporating the latest XR technologies and methodologies, ensuring sustainability and adaptability for future developments in the sector.

Keywords: Extended reality, construction, education, circular economy, environmental.