ITEC 1997

  TABLE OF CONTENTS  

Multimedia   for Training and Education

  Media Selection - a New Look at the AIMS Model and a Decision-Based Alternative

  Multimedia Based Education, Training and Performance support - Trends and Applications

  Multimedia Solutions for Aircraft Recognition Training in the Royal Air Force

  Using Simulation in Computer  Based Training: A Look into Component Reusability  

Computer Based  Education and Training

  CBT Developer Workbench - a Conceptual  Model

  The Business Case for Low-Cost Electronic Performance  Support Systems

  Investment in  Training can bring Big Rewards

  Implementation  of a Front  End Analysis to Streamline the CBT Development  Process

  UF 1007 CBT - an Example of Cost Effective In-House Re-Engineering of Computer  Based Training within the Royal Navy  

Computer  Based  Education

  The Use and Development of  Computer Based Support to Teaching and Learning the Royal Navy

  Observations on Computer Based Simulation Games

  The Use of Defence Simulation and Related Computer Based Technology in Public Education in Public Education  

Computer  Based  Medical  training

  Research issues in the Development of a Virtual Surgery Trainer

  Minimally Invasive Surgery Simulator

  Introduction of a Fully Portable Body-Mounted Emergency Medical Info System  

Maritime Training -- Training Analysis

  Investment Evaluation of Technology-Based Systems-Training Needs Analysis in the Royal Norwegian Navy

  The Elicitation  Analysis and Specification of Requirements for UK Royal Navy Trainers

  The Integration of Training Needs Analysis with Integrated Logistic Support  

Maritime Training - System Design

  Integrated Logistics Management System for the Battle Force Tactical Training Program

  System Approach to Identifying Requirements for a New Vessel

  Simulation & Virtual Reality to Support the Design of Safety Procedures in Harbour Environments  

Technologies for Training Reconfigurable Systems

  Design for a Reconfigurable Simulator

  A Deployable Flight/Ground Reconfigurable Simulator

  Providing UAV Video and Telemetry Using DIS/HELA Stealth Technology  

Technologies for Training

  Laser Aim Scoring System (LASS) Improving HELLFIRE Gunnery Training

  Scenario Type and Motion Effects on Machine Gunner Training

  Simulation of Combat Radio Systems in Exercises  

Technologies for Training - Analysis of Success

  From Art to Science: A Knowledge Engineering Approach to Task Analysis

  Modeling Team Member Roles to Facilitate Identification of Team Training Needs

  First Results Operating the Dutch National Simulation Facility NSF  

Technologies for Training - Research  Studies

  Development of a Method for Evaluating Force Cueing Devices for Tactical Flight Trainers

  Experimental Studies on Natural Motion in Virtual Environments

  Computer-Generated Forces as Part of Distributed Air Warfare Systems  

Visual Database Creation and On-line Generation

  A Solution for Multiple Levels of Detail Terrain  Generation

  On-line Terrain  Level of Detail

  Dynamics Model vs. Visual Database Interaction  in a Tank Driver Simulator  

Visualization

  Geographical Coordinates in Real-Time Image Generation

  The Use of Synthetic  Environments and Visualization for Finite Element Analysis

  The Impact of Low Cost LCD Projectors on Multi-Channel Project Display Systems  

Interoperability, DIS and HLA Policy

  The Australian Defense Simulation Master Plan

  Distributed Interactive Simulation for the Royal Australian Navy  

Interoperability, DIS and HLA Standards

  Aggregate Level Simulation Protocol (ALSP) adapts to HLA

  Universal Advanced Distributed Simulation, Riding the Third Wave with DIS & HLA

  Coping with Changing Standards in DIS and HLA

  C4I to SIM Initiative and Common  Operational Modeling, Planning and Simulation Strategy (Compass)

  Results of High Level  Architecture Platform  Proto-Federation Experiment

  Connection of Live Simulation and Virtual Simulation  

Interoperability, DIS and HLA Applications

  Understanding and Reducing Latency in Distributed Simulation

  Advanced Simulation Framework: a Generic Approach to Distributed Simulation

  Human Immersion into the DIS Battlefield  

Transportation Training - Road Policy Issues

  Implications of a Legislated Road Training Trust Fund (the Trust)  

Transportation Training - Road

  Automatic Trainee Assessment in Driving Simulators. Why and What?

  Exercise Generation and Automatic Evaluation on a Truck Training Simulator

  Display System for Truck Training Simulators  

Transportation Training  - Rail

  Designing Rail System Driver Training Simulators for Optimum Satisfaction

  The Concept of Audio/Visual System Train Driving

  Low Cost Motion Systems for Ground Based Vehicle Simulators: Traditional 6 DOF is the Worst Solution!  

Transportation Training Helicopter

  A Mechanical Systems Trainer for the Merlin Helicopter

  Simulation for the All Weather Rescue Helicopter

  Modular Roll-on/Roll off Design Concept of a Rotorcraft Simulation Center  

Mission  and Exercise Training - Strategy  and  Analysis

  Mission Analysis. What , Why and How?

  Modeling Aspects of  OOTW

  Genetic Inheritance Based Mechanism for Mission Scenarios Generation  

Mission and  Exercise Training - Combined Combat

  Hi-Tech Training for Military Commanders and Staff

  Multipurpose Use of Information from Force-on -Force Battle Training

  Communications - the Backbone of  the  CTC  

CATC

  Complacency, In Crew Resource Management Terms -An Accident Waiting to Happen?  

CRM mad cabin crew training

  British Airways & Boeing Combined Cabin Crew Training

  A Diary of  CRM: the Orient speaks  

Simulators and Equipment  for Aviation Training

  A New 60 degree Vertical Field of View Collimated Display System

  Debriefing Software as a Tool for Airline Operation  Efficiency Improvement

  A Mobile Rig for Helicopter Crash and Rescue Training at Oil Rigs  

Further Education in Aviation Subjects

  Advances in Aviation Education in Australia

  The  International Degree Course in Aviation System Engineering and Management  

Air Traffic Controllers Selection and Training

  Multiplay Links to ATC Simulation

  Controller Selection and Training in P.R. China  

Pilot Flight Training Issues

  Computer Based  Radio Communication Training

  The Glass in the Glass Cockpit - Cloudy or Clear?

  Environmental Awareness for Pilots

  Pilot Training in the Czech Republic.

  A Practical Perspective on Human-Machine Interface Issues in Glass Cockpit Aircraft.

MEDIA SELECTION ~ A NEW LOOK AT THE AIMS MODEL & A DECISION BASED ALTERNATIVE

Peter Dorrington  
Westland System Assessment Limited


In 1983 the "Automated Instructional Media Selection (AIMS)" [Reference 1] model was introduced by the US Naval Training Systems Centre (NTSC) as one method of performing automated (computer supported) media selection. Since then AIMS has gone on to be one of the most popular validated models in existence.

The original AIMS model was based upon qualitative scores assigned to some 22 media types with 43 attributes in 7 categories. It has been shown to be effective in assisting training analysts/designers to select the most appropriate media for a given training task. Yet AIMS has some serious shortcomings, not least of which is that it is so old (some of the media types are now obsolete, (e.g. Video Disc, TICCIT, PLATO), others have evolved into far more capable technologies than they were in 1983). However, the biggest problem with AIMS may be that it does not take into account the relative importance of attributes or mandatory training requirements.

In this paper I will re-examine AIMS and suggest a new approach to its use ~ one which builds upon the strengths of AIMS but then goes on to provide additional functionality and reflects more modern training technologies. This new approach requires little or no extra work to utilise but delivers a significantly more detailed and useable result.

In the second half of this paper, and as a comparison, I will introduce a completely different approach to media selection ~ one based upon decision trees (Boolean logic) and with an emphasis instructional strategy rather than specific media-to-attribute mappings.  

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers

 

MULTIMEDIA-BASED  EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND PERFORMANCE SUPPORT --TRENDS AND APPLICATIONS

Richard M. Thackray, Jr.
PerformTech Inc.  

 

Technology-enabled education, training, and performance support has captured the interest of organizations worldwide. The technology has matured and moderate-priced equipment is readily available with an ever increasing installed base.

Today, education and training specialists are faced with a very wide range of methods and media to support education and training needs -- from CD-ROM, to virtual reality, to Web-based applications. With so many choices available, many education/training specialists are left asking: “ What method/media best fit my needs? What works best? What fits my budget? What technology will still be viable five years from now? “ To address these issues, this session will highlight the major features and trends for a range of multimedia-based interventions.

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers

 

  MULTI-MEDIA  SOLUTIONS FOR AIRCRAFT RECOGNITION TRAINING IN THE ROYAL AIR FORCE

Flt Lt. Daren S Moss
Sqn Ldr Andrew C Pearce
Dept. of Technology Enhanced Training
RAF Training Development Support Unit

In the last few years there has been an ever increasing use of Computer Based Training (CBT) and Technology Enhanced Training (TET) throughout the British Armed Forces. A notable exception to this trend is the field of Aircraft Recognition; where training is still predominantly carried out by  acknowledged recognition expert(s) using a mix of photographs, slideshows and briefings. These methods are costly, time consuming and involve minimal student interaction. Opportunities for self study and assessment are limited by the distribution of expensive, recognition specific, journals and magazines which, although they contain excellent source material, have limited training benefit.

This paper covers the design and implementation of the Aircraft Recognition Trainer for the UK Tri-Service Recognition Committee. It examines the decision to develop a dedicated solution rather than purchase an existing off-the-shelf package, together with the reasons behind the decision to use an in-house resource such as the Department of Technology Enhanced Training (DTET) at the RAF Training Development and Support Unit (TDSU) in preference to a commercial developer. It includes the Human Factors, Psychology and Human Computer Interaction (HCI) aspects considered during the evolution of the user interface and highlights the importance of subject matter experts having continued input to the ongoing design of a CBT package. It also covers the opportunities offered / difficulties encountered during the incorporation of new technologies such as Fractal compression, 3D modeling software and 32 bit operating systems.

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers

 

  USING SIMULATION IN COMPUTER BASED TRAINING: A LOOK INTO COMPONENT REUSABILITY

Dr. Meir Morag
Emultek, ltd. 

Advanced component technology can be utilized to enable efficient creation of interactive simulations. These simulations are key to successful computer-based training courses for system operators and maintenance personnel. Object reusability is essential for modern simulation  development and is illustrated here in the visual simulation environment of RAPID.

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers


 

CBT DEVELOPER WORKBENCH - A CONCEPTUAL MODEL

John Hui Chzi-hon
Lead Systems Analyst
Systems & Computer Organization, DTT  

 

Multimedia CBT offers enormous opportunities in terms of training for military organizations. However, many hours of courseware need to be developed in order for CBT to be a cost effective medium of military training. Hence, there is a need to design a CBT Developer Workbench so that higher production capability can be achieved in a large organization. The workbench defines and groups all the different types of tools used in the CBT development process. It also allows developers to share experience, information, and resources. Finally, it provides access to the Internet so that developers can search for fresh ideas.

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

 

THE BUSINESS CASE FOR LOW-COST ELECTRONIC  
PERFORMANCE SUPPORT SYSTEMS

Peter Dorrington
Westland System Assessment Limited

 

There is a new buzzword doing the rounds of the training world “EPSS” ~ or Electronic Performance Support Systems. Proponents of EPSS would have us believe that this new technology will do away with traditional/formal training as we know it today and thrust us all into a brave new world of on-line task performance support and enhancement. We seem to hear the same old litany every few years, the previous battle-cry being that multimedia would remove the need for instructors as we all learned the wisdom of Solomon from self-paced instruction in front of  computer screens. The funny thing is that there are as many instructors and training courses today  as there ever were (although it is true to say that Computer Based Training (CBT) has become an  important component in many modern training systems). So what is this EPSS thing everybody is  talking about? If it’s so good how come we haven’t seen more of it? And how do we get our hands on some if we want it? 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

  INVESTMENT IN TRAINING CAN BRING BIG REWARDS

Phil Hobday
Royal Air Force
 

As  we look back over the last half-century we can see that many organizations have been chasing  technology to such an extent that they have become unable to make the most effective use of their equipment. The challenge facing these organizations is how best to prepare for the next millennium. 

Those hooked on technology believe they are less efficient because they do not have the latest equipment. However, my hypothesis is:  

"That organisations saturated with technology can gain a bigger return on the

'bottom line' by investing in effective training rather than new equipment".  

Common practice in recent years has been for organisations to cut training budgets whilst

maintaining spending levels on new equipment, with the result that their training programmes have fallen behind their technological base. Wise counsel reminds us that technology is only a tool and without the Human Resource interface it can do little to generate profit. Hence an organisation can often become more profitable by investing in training its people rather than by purchasing new equipment.  

Unfortunately, all too often the providers of training have failed to deliver effective training. Although  most trainers are by now familiar with the internationally agreed Systems Approach to Training (SAT), many fail to provide effective training because they place insufficient emphasis on training  design. The body of this paper covers the principles of SAT and goes on to develop a model for the vital process of training design.

The training design model illustrated in this paper provides a useful tool not only for the trainer but also for management to ensure their organisation gets the training it needs. However, by now the message should be crystal clear - 'SAT is only a tool and it needs a skilled operator to achieve effective results'.

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers 

 

IMPLEMENTATION OF A FRONT-END ANALYSIS TO STREAMLINE  
THE CBT DEVELOPMENT PROCESS

Katharine Golas, Ph.D., Southwest Research Institute  
LtCdr Ron Gordon, Royal Naval Submarine School  

 

Since the early 1970s, the Computer-Based Training (CBT) industry has grown to the point where most American government agencies and private organizations, and a significant number of international organizations, implement some type of CBT in their training programs. Some organizations rely solely on CBT to deliver training, while others combine CBT with other training delivery methods, such as classroom instruction, on-the-job training, and simulator-based training.

Historically, the process of developing CBT has been viewed as complicated and risky. There are as  many documented cases of cost overruns and poor-quality products as there are successful programs. However, even with the risks and high costs associated with CBT, it has emerged as the most popular training delivery system within the last 30 years. With more powerful computing technologies now available at lower costs, and the emergence of digital multimedia, the popularity of CBT is increasing at a rapid pace.  

As the process of developing CBT has evolved over the years, and changed with technological advances, many books have been written which present models and guidelines to guide CBT design and development efforts. Some organizations follow these guidelines to develop CBT products using their in-house resources, but many, particularly government organizations, contract out entire CBT efforts. Organizations that believe CBT may be a solution often begin by conducting a front-end study, such as training needs assessment, training media analysis, or  training requirements analysis, to validate their beliefs prior to full-scale development. 

This paper describes an effort in which a front-end analysis was conducted using a new approach which resulted in a streamlined CBT development effort. With the new approach the CBT analysis and design phases were conducted simultaneously. By combining the two phases into one, a detailed specification was prepared which included CBT storyboards, a CBT production schedule, estimated costs to produce the CBT, and selection of the most appropriate authoring system. By simultaneously conducting the two ISD phases, the costs and risks to the CBT customer as well as the CBT contractor were reduced. 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

 

UF 1007 CBT - AN EXAMPLE OF COST EFFECTIVE IN-HOUSE RE-ENGINEERING OF COMPUTER BASED TRAINING WITHIN THE ROYAL NAVY

Lieutenant Commander J M Hammersley Royal Navy

Lieutenant Commander G J Moore Royal Navy

Royal Naval School of Educational and Training Technology

 

This paper describes the re-engineering of an existing piece of Computer Based Training within the Royal Navy. The package is used to train operators of a common surface radar and is based on a system emulation. Originally produced in TenCORE® to meet one operational user’s needs, its  functionality needed to be extended to meet the requirements of another major user. These changes included delivery under Windows®, a higher level of emulation fidelity, increased student interaction, enhanced student navigation facilities and extended subject matter content.

 

The reasons behind the decision to redesign and redevelop the product are described, as are the training need, the specification, recycling of the original design, development issues, integration into the curriculum and project evaluation. The design issues concerning the level of fidelity and student interaction required in a very low cost but effective training medium are explained. Also outlined are the tools used, Visual Basic® and Asymetrix ToolBook®, and the practical implementation of the PRINCE methodology for project management. Problems with the project  and the accuracy of the risk assessment are illustrated.

 

The project was a microcosm of all the  factors that are dealt with in the specification of much larger CBT applications for the RN. The evaluation of the product is used to illustrate teaching points on the courses that the Royal Naval  School of Educational and Training Technology (RNSETT) conducts to produce informed   customers of CBT.

 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

  THE USE AND DEVELOPMENT OF COMPUTER BASED SUPPORT  
TO TEACHING AND LEARNING IN THE ROYAL NAVY

Lieutenant Commander G J Moore Royal Navy - Training Media Group Officer
Lieutenant Commander J Hammersley Royal Navy - CBT Section Officer Royal Naval School of Educational and Training Technology
 

The paper describes the current strategies for the selection, development and use of various forms of computer mediated teaching and learning aids employed within the Royal Navy. From a learning model, three key aspects are identified that should be evaluated by any organisation considering the use of this type of support to teaching and learning, viz.:  

- technology issues, e.g. the ability of existing computer systems and peripheral devices to

create the relevant learning environment (e.g. situated learning, distance learning), provide

portability or openness; methods and cost of development.

- learning needs, such as the nature of the learning goals and knowledge domain; the

specificity/generality of the subject matter; mode(s) of teaching and learning; alternative

teaching strategies; assessment requirements; student characteristics.

- organisational factors, e.g. the nature of the organisation, its data management needs,

student numbers and control requirements; courseware and project management;

configuration control; teaching style(s) and facilities in the organisation; training of

instructional staff to use these technologies effectively; resources; corporate image.  

The above factors are illustrated by reference to the situation existing within the Royal Navy and contrasted with other organisations including the UK Higher Education sector. The policy which this has led the RN to adopt for the use of computers in teaching and learning is described together with the measures taken to develop RN training staff to ensure effective use is made of these materials. A description is given of the methods adopted for developing the necessary knowledge and skills in RN training staff, including the development of formal training courses and the role of a centre of in-house advice and expertise like the Royal Naval School of Educational and Training Technology, RNSETT.  

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

  OBSERVATIONS ON COMPUTER BASED SIMULATION GAMES

Oliver Arifon  
 

The pedagogy of simulation/gaming allows a great freedom for the student. It concerns letting the participants discover for themselves that which they should discover. There is a model and a dynamic which includes the role players/trainers, assisted by computers which permits the revelation of numerous elements.

 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

THE  USE OF DEFENCE SIMULATION AND RELATED COMPUTER-BASED TECHNOLOGY IN  PUBLIC EDUCATION

Julia A. Medin, Ph.D.
Senior Educational Technologist  
Institute for Simulation and Training, University of Central Florida  
 

This paper reports results of a funded study performed by the author at the Institute for Simulation and Training of the University of Central Florida (IST/UCF). The study, entitled “Simulation and Computer-Based Technologies for Education”, investigated and showed how military technology should and should not be used for public schools education.

 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

RESEARCH ISSUES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A VIRTUAL SURGERY TRAINER

M. Kelly & N. Beagley

Centre for Human Sciences, DERA

 

The DERA Centre for Human Sciences is developing a simulator to train the techniques of Minimal Access Surgery (MAS). The project focuses on the growing area of laproscopic surgery for  the treatment of ectopic pregnancy. Current training methods are limited in their ability to realistically simulate the variety of possible scenarios. The simulator uses a novel hardware platform based on a personal computer. P-10 graphics cards are used to accelerate the display of interactive 3-D models. The project aims to produce an advanced training package which combines a realistic simulation with an effective training structure. The development of an accurate simulation addresses the specific issues of force feedback, stereo presentation, model deformation and depth cues. The simulation follows networking standards for Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS) allowing the issues surrounding remote training to be studied. The project’s design of an appropriate training structure and lesson content relies on a full analysis of the surgeons’ tasks with the assistance of subject mater experts.

 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

 

MINIMALLY  INVASIVE  SURGERY SIMULATOR

Serge COUVET

Thomson Training & Simulation

Doctor Jacques BADY

Armand Brillard Hospital

 

There are needs to improve surgeons’ training procedures in endoscopy because present means are not appropriate. The purpose of an endoscopic simulator reproducing faithfully the patient anatomy is to facilitate surgeon’s training and continuing education. Moreover, the operator can repeat several times the same step of the intervention, can introduce complications and pathologies in the session and can self-train and auto evaluate. The asset of this product is to prepare surgeon to face and to react to unexpected events (accidents, complications…).  
 

Thus, a better training tends to reduce therapeutic risks for patients, to decrease health cost and to improve health care quality. The simulator is based on state-of-the-art simulation technologies : force feedback system, 3-d real time synthetic imagery. It provides high quality, real-time images similar to those of an endoscopic camera, while reproducing realistic force feedback on real surgical instruments. Indeed, the trainee feels like in an operating room with a realistic replication of the operative environment and the inherent stress conditions due to simulation technologies.  
 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

 

INTRODUCTION OF A FULLY PORTABLE, BODY-MOUNTED EMERGENCY MEDICAL INFORMATION SYSTEM.

Karen Altieri  
Advanced Computer Equipment Ltd. USA

 

Advanced Computer Equipment, Ltd. has developed a “wearable” computer system for use by Walter Reed Army Institute of Research. The system will be used to access medical information, to support remote primary care, and for remote diagnostic consultation.  

The system consists of a small 4x4x3-inch chassis that houses the CPU, interface boards,

battery mount and a panel of standard I/O ports. The system comprises a 486SLC/50RS Mhz computer bus, 8 or 16 MB RAM, a 170 MB removable hard drive for a type III PCMCIA slot, a type II PCMCIA slot, voice actuation software and hardware, and a miniature wrist-mounted keyboard.  

This equipment is called System Six in the US and Manumax 2000 in the UK. The miniature VGA CRT is mounted on a head band, or may be mounted on the wrist, and displays text, graphics or information relayed from the medical information system or from the medical consultant.

The wearable computer system would interface with the medical information center via standard military communications equipment, such as a SINCGARS radio, connected to the computer via the RS232 communications port. The addition of a miniature digital camera would allow real-time images of the patient’s condition, or of the wound or injury, to be relayed to the diagnostician or radiologist as appropriate.  

Information is critical to the formulation of almost every professional decision made in the field of medicine today. Whatever medical endeavor is undertaken, the accuracy and speed of diagnostic information is critical. Much of this information is already available via the infosphere. However, when the medical crisis occurs in an emergency situation outside the hospital environment, with few diagnostic tools available, no patient records available, and the patient unable to provide critical details, the absence of an immediate data link available to the medical attendant on the scene could make the difference between a full recovery or permanent injury for an injured or wounded combatant. 

Such a wearable computer system would allow the military medical technician or a non-expert attendant to perform diagnosis and treatment without the physical presence of a medical expert, but with access to the best medical information and expertise available. The on-line telemedicine system would be worn by the medical care-giver. On-line communication capability would be activated by  voice commands, and a voice communication link would be established. Since all commands given to the computer would be verbal commands, the medical attendant would have his/her hands free to continue medical treatment, In an actual medical emergency, the medical expert could lead him/her through viable medical options to stabilize the patient or to provide appropriate patient care and treatment. 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

  INVESTMENT EVALUATION OF TECHNOLOGY-BASED TRAINING SYSTEMS - TRAINING NEEDS ANALYSIS IN THE ROYAL NORWEGIAN NAVY

E. W. Berghout  
Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands  

C. Svendsen  
Siemens Nederland N.V., The Netherlands  

I. W. Thomassen  
Naval Training Establishment HNoMS Tordenskjold, Norway  
 

The effectiveness of a technology-based training system greatly depends on its value to the owner organisation. This paper describes the results of a research project into the decision structure of the evaluation process of technology-based training systems which was carried out in the Royal Norwegian Navy. A comprehensive methodology was developed which evaluates technology-based training systems as information systems. The evaluation method can reveal cost driving training objectives and makes sure that there is maintained focus on the strategic value of the information system components. 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

  THE ELICITATION, ANALYSIS & SPECIFICATION OF REQUIREMENTS FOR  
UK ROYAL NAVY TRAINERS

Edmund P. O’Shaughnessy, Sea Systems Sector Defence Research & Evaluation Agency

Melanie J. Forster  
Centre for Human Sciences, Defence Research & Evaluation Agency  
 

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has a long tradition of procuring a vast array of trainers for the Royal Navy (RN). These trainers range from simple mock-ups of control panels to large, complex  command team trainers utilizing expensive operational equipment. The Defence Research & Evaluation Agency (an executive agency of the UK MoD) has provided both research and consultancy support to the MoD on all aspects of training and trainers, from psychological factors of human performance to the definition of technical specifications of trainer equipment. To ensure that  the training needs of the Royal Navy are correctly identified and met, the MoD is mandated to conduct a Training Needs Analysis (TNA) before procuring any training equipment of significant cost. To date it has proven difficult, however, to transition the results of TNAs into technical specifications against which a competitive contract can be let. This paper reports on the recent work of the authors in defining a method based on the corporate research programme on human performance in naval training to produce technical specifications for trainers from the output of TNAs. This method has been used on a recent submarine command team trainer and is currently being applied on the adaptation of two existing trainers to support the command team training aspects of weapon control. An analysis is presented of the current TNA process adopted by the MoD for RN trainers with discussion on how the process can be applied and its difficulties overcome. The challenges of defining the requirements of technical specifications of trainers are also covered along with a description of one means of structuring and presenting trainer requirements.

 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

  THE INTEGRATION OF TRAINING NEEDS ANALYSIS WITH INTEGRATED LOGISTIC SUPPORT

Cdr. AE Mizen RN, Lt Cdr. N Talbot RN, Lt P Morris RN  
Royal Naval School of Educational And Training Technology

 

The Integrated Logistic Support (ILS) process is a disciplined management approach, affecting both customer and industry, aimed at optimizing equipment Life Cycle Costs. It is the main mechanism that affects the procurement of logistic support for new equipment and upgrades to existing equipment. ILS includes elements that influence equipment design and determine support requirements. MOD policy decrees that the ILS process be applied to all future equipment procurement in accordance with DEF STAN 00-60 - the UK standard for ILS.

 

ILS is a relatively new and still evolving process in the Royal Navy. The information required to inform the procurement of training systems to support the operational equipment is the information required for a Training Needs Analysis (TNA) is part of the ILS process. However, the experience of those involved in TNA and those using ILS is that deficiencies exist in the provision of training support through current ILS practices. 

The MoD/Industry HFI/MANPRINT Liaison Working Group concluded that: “Greater integration of HFI, ILS, Training and Safety will reduce duplication and help focus on the human needs of the system development process with potential saving of time and money during development.

The ILS process considers training as a support element. It will therefore identify the procurement of appropriate training systems to support the operational equipment, taking into account the personnel who require training and to what level. Within all three Armed Forces TNA is a mandatory requirement when the expected cost of procuring new or adapted training equipment is greater than £50k. The Royal Navy (RN) TNA process identifies all personnel whose working practices are affected by the new equipment, or changed requirement, together with the detailed lists of their duties and tasks. An overview of the RN TNA process is at Annex A. It would therefore seem appropriate to consider how the TNA process may assist in improving the specifications of training systems within the ILS process. 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

  INTEGRATED  LOGISTICS  MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR THE BATTLEFORCE TACTICAL TRAINING PROGRAM

Dale Lotspeich  
Ph.D., Naval Surface Warfare Center  

Michael D. Kasmarik
Wunderlich - Malec Engineering, Inc.

This paper presents an overview of a system design developed for the US Navy Battle Force Tactical Training (BFTT) program by a joint team of Ph.D. NSWC, Eldyne, Inc. and RAC, Inc., of San Diego CA, Focus Learning Corporation of Pismo Beach, CA, and Wunderlich-Malec Engineering of Minnetonka, MN. This design provides a means to integrate all Interactive Courseware (ICW), Interactive Electronic Technical Manuals (IETM), and other required logistical  support information into an electronic delivery system. The system described utilizes Commercial  Off-The-Shelf (COTS) hardware and software components to build the database and  communications capabilities for the system, and includes the following capabilities:

1. An integrated methodology for defining and streamlining the development of logistical support information, principally IETM’s and ICW.

2. Overall configuration management control and reliability / obsolescence of program components.

3. A version control method for authoring of IETM and ICW content, and for distribution of the IETM and ICW content runtime modules.

4. A repository system to make both IETM and ICW source level content objects and runtime content object objects available to multiple locations.

5. A mechanism to connect to and retrieve information from various logistical support databases.

6. A network infrastructure to provide high performance network transport of all supported information to shipboard and land based sites, on demand. 

The COTS technology is comprised of several applications. The foundation application provides a method to analyze and build a database of training requirements or objectives. Based on these requirements, training or performance support content is defined. This content is linked in the database to the requirements or objectives, and therefore provides a means to identify and maintain content when objectives or requirements change. In addition, linkages are provided to off-the-shelf ICW authoring packages, which in turn deliver actual IETM or ICW modules. 

Finally, a client/server messaging technique, successfully demonstrated in the commercial marketplace, is used to distribute and maintain version control of the IETM or ICW modules, and provides links to information from other logistical support databases. Current efforts for BFTT are focusing on the first four of the capabilities described, which are configuration management and definition, and development of IETM and ICW modules. Integration of the delivery technology will come at a later date. 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

  SYSTEMS APPROACH TO IDENTIFYING TRAINING  
REQUIREMENTS FOR A NEW VESSEL

Daniel Sheppard
Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division

  Elizabeth Lederer
Program Executive Office, Carriers, Littoral Warfare and Auxiliary Ships

Mary Sheppe
Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division  

Identifying training requirements and managing changes in the training environment for major acquisitions are often difficult tasks because they often involve sophisticated training technology and implementing the changes require coordinated support throughout the training support community. Analyzing training requirements for a new system or platform early in the acquisition process is critical to efficient and effective planning. This paper describes a systematic approach/ process for identifying training requirements for a new maritime vessel. This approach has been used in identifying training requirements for a new United States Coast Guard (USCG) Polar Icebreaker.

 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

 

SIMULATION & VIRTUAL REALITY TO SUPPORT THE DESIGN OF
SAFETY PROCEDURES IN HARBOUR ENVIRONMENTS

Agostino G. Bruzzone
TIM, Università di Genova

  Elisa Manetti
Blue Sky Technology

  Gabriele Cotta, Mauro Cerruto
Liophant Simulation Club, Genova, Italy

 

The paper proposes the application of virtual reality techniques within a harbour environment as a way to guarantee safety during operations and to support layout definition activities. The paper presents a prototype developed for the integral modeling of a large harbour used to simulate safety  procedures. The prototype was implemented on low-cost platforms to guarantee the most widespread use among all port services.

 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

 

DESIGN FOR A RECONFIGURABLE SIMULATOR

Dirk Schmidt
IBP PIETZSCH GmbH, Karlsruhe

Wolfgang Bender
Bundesamt für Wehrtechnik und Beschaffung, Koblenz
 

For the use in research, development and material acquisition process a reconfigurable crew compartment development simulator is under development in the frame of a project funded by the German procurement office for defense material. If a simulator is reconfigurable to different weapon systems, also control devices, display devices and indicators have to be modified. In practice indicators will no longer be used in hardware but will be simulated by graphics presented on a screen. This paper describes a configuration software which allows to describe (configure) various ground based weapon systems and to download the configuration to a reconfigurable simulator with emphasis on sensors (type, position) and crew stations. The intuitive graphical user interface is described  in detail. The configuration software defines the link between the various control devices (e.g. buttons, control grips, pedals etc.)  through functions (e.g. accelerate, break, slew, point, shoot etc.) to display devices (e.g. periscope, monitor, speedometer etc.). Various indicators (cycle, linear, analog, digital) can easily be created and combined to complex panels. The configuration software makes extensive use of object oriented design.

 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

 

A DEPLOYABLE FLIGHT/GROUND RECONFIGURABLE SIMULATOR

Eytan Pollak, Ph.D.

William Garbacz
Lockheed Martin Information Systems Company
Training Simulator Systems 

One of the trends in the world-wide military market is a move away from large, expensive, vehicle unique simulators to simulators that are reconfigurable, low cost, and deployable. Lockheed Martin has responded to the market by developing the MARS 21, or Modular Advanced  Reconfigurable Simulator for the 21st Century. The MARS 21 design utilizes a unique hardware and software approach that provides for an open, scaleable, reconfigurable system architecture for simulation applications. This paper addresses the capabilities of the MARS 21, its hardware concept and components, and its software concept and components.

 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

 

PROVIDING UAV VIDEO AND TELEMETRY USING DIS/HLA STEALTH TECHNOLOGY

Gary W. Hall and Ralph Whitney
Motorola Space and Systems Technology Group
Advanced Distributed Simulation and Training Office
 

As the size and complexity of Distributive Interactive Simulation (DIS) and High Level Architecture (HLA) based exercises continue to increase, the inclusion of intelligence-based systems becomes apparent. One necessary component in modern warfare is the Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C 4 I) system, like the Joint Surveillance and Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) Common Ground Station (CGS) sensor fusion system. A simulation of this type of system requires a variety of sensor inputs. Some of these sensor inputs  are not available to other simulations in a DIS or  HLA exercise because they require the transmission of large amounts of imagery data in real-time. One example sensor input that is not available in a networked training environment, is the video and telemetry information provided by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). 

This paper describes a technique of reusing the Stealth technology existing in today’s DIS and HLA-based exercises to provide UAV video and telemetry sensor information. The necessary video signals are provided by using an existing stealth to provide the 3-dimensional (3D) computer generated imagery of the battlefield. By tethering the stealth to either an existing man-in-the-loop simulation or a computer generated simulation of an appropriate air vehicle, the video signal that would be generated by the real UAV is simulated. With the added ability of panning the 3D viewpoint to simulate the UAV’s on-board camera movements, a more realistic simulation is achieved. Finally, by using the position of the tethered viewpoint and camera’s field of view and orientation, the necessary telemetry data is provided as input to a C 4 I system.  
 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

  LASER AIM SCORING SYSTEM (LASS):  
IMPROVING HELLFIRE GUNNERY TRAINING

Kevin S. Rees,
US Army Materiel Command (AMC) 

James Habersat and Brian Redman
 
US Army Communications & Electronics Command (CECOM) 

Quinton Miller
 Cartwright Electronics Incorporated

  CPT James Adams
US Army Europe

The Laser Aim Scoring System (LASS) project represents a significant advancement in the quality of HELLFIRE missile training for the AH-64 attack helicopter aircrews of the US Army. This paper describes the laser detection technology, system integration challenges, program history, and future plans for the LASS. The need for LASS, the operation of the system, some design details, and the progress made to date will also be discussed.

The LASS detects, displays and records an AH-64 gunner’s laser designator spot aimed at a mock-up tank target during dry-fire HELLFIRE training. The LASS computer times the entire training engagement to verify that the laser spot was on target during the time required for a missile to travel down range. The LASS successfully detects potential target hits and misses caused by poor laser designation technique, improper boresight, and incorrect designator codes. LASS simulates a successful target hit by dropping the target board and firing off a small explosive device when a crew conducts a successful HELLFIRE engagement.

The LASS will never replace live HELLFIRE missile launches, but it can allow aircraft crews to conduct realistic and effective dry-fire HELLFIRE engagements on a routine basis. The current effort  to field LASS at the 7th Army Training Command (7th ATC) in Grafenwoehr, Germany represents a major step forward in AH-64 HELLFIRE gunnery qualification. The 7th ATC is using LASS to provide AH-64 crews stationed in Europe with the best quality HELLFIRE training available anywhere in the world.

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

SCENARIO TYPE AND MOTION EFFECTS ON MACHINE GUNNER TRAINING

Jeffrey Horey,Ronald Wolff, Edward Purvis  
Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division

Simulation has become increasingly important for training marksmanship and other weapon delivery skills. The effectiveness of simulation is influenced by a wide number of device and instructional features, and isolating the impact of each results in more efficient use of resources and better trained personnel. This paper presents the results of a preliminary evaluation of a simulator for the M-2 .50 caliber machine gun. Platform motion and scenario type (graphics vs. video) were investigated for their effects on machine gun training and within simulator transfer using the Moving Weapons Platform System. Results indicate significant improvement in performance for all combinations of motion and scenario type groups, and a potential differential motion impact on within simulator transfer depending on scenario pretraining type. Additional research is recommended to confirm the trends observed in this evaluation.

 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

 

SIMULATION OF COMBAT RADIO SYSTEMS IN EXERCISES

Alan Brill
Drake Electronics Limited

 

Large scale exercises may comprise many hundreds of simulated vehicles and elements. Each vehicle may contain its own intercom of, for example, two to twelve crew positions, with each crew position maybe requiring access to one or two open net radios and one or two secure net radios. It is probable that many nets (frequencies) will be required in a large exercise. In addition to the voice radio communications, field telephones, telephone exchanges, and data communication links are likely to be required. 

This results in the need for a highly advanced complex communications solution to cater for all of these needs. This complexity needs to be replicated within simulation and training environments. 

This paper discusses the requirements for simulation of radio systems within large and small scale exercises. The problems associated with instructor and trainer control and monitoring  overlaid into the simulated system are discussed, in addition to the system complexities outlined  earlier. 

The additional problems encountered are with radio systems in the field and which need realistic simulation will be outlined. These include system re-configuration to correspond to exercise changes (including participant losses and battlefield condition movements), signal fading,  atmospheric noise introduction, and communication loss through movement and terrain obscuration. 

The effects of Electronic Warfare are considered, with introduction of white noise and re-transmission, along with simulation of both the causes and their effects on the transmission paths. 

The paper discusses all of the above and outline current and future solutions to the problems raised with the simulation of radio communications in both small both and large scale combat exercise scenarios. 

This paper is available on the 1997 ITEC CD ROM. Order it from ITEC, Ltd. - Papers  

 

 

FROM ART TO SCIENCE: A KNOWLEDGE ENGINEERING APPROACH TO TASK ANALYSIS

Dr A.H. van der Hulst
TNO-Physics and Electronics Laboratory
 

Instructional systems design slowly evolves towards a science. These days, the discipline has its own methodologies that outline phases in design and define intermediate results. In this paper it is argued that such support is necessary but not sufficient. The discipline lacks methods and tools that support the activities to get to the intermediate results. In task analysis, for instance, novices have trouble to work goal directed to obtain the information needed, to  distinguish irrelevant from relevant information, to properly handle ambiguity and inconsistencies, and to ensure completeness. A model based approach, as suggested in the discipline of knowledge engineering, was proposed to help overcome these bottlenecks in task analysis. A field test with a model of team tasks indeed revealed that, when not used too rigidly, the approach cou