The comprehensive reform of China's education system continues to deepen, with growing prominence placed on new demands for practical education, exemplified by labor education and science popularization. Exploring how traditional practical teaching platforms can better align with increasingly diverse and integrated educational needs has become a key focus in the latest round of practical teaching reform. Taking the virtual simulation teaching platform for the oil and gas industry as a case study, this research systematically elaborates on innovative concepts for the development of traditional practical teaching platforms. The core approach involves moving beyond a singular teaching function to establish a multi-functional, integrated development model. This model centers on practical teaching, is supported by professional labor education, and extends through science popularization services and social engagement. Practice has demonstrated that this model not only significantly enhances the effectiveness of engineering practical education and promotes comprehensive improvements in the teaching quality of core disciplines but also offers valuable insights into addressing challenges such as the disconnect between labor education and professional practice, the underutilization of practical resources in higher education institutions, and the limited scope of social service functions.

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