Accession Number:

ADA399507

Title:

Working Memory and Exploration in Training the Knowledge and Skills Required by Digital Systems

Descriptive Note:

Final rept. Jan 2000-Sep 2001

Corporate Author:

ARMY RESEARCH INST FOR THE BEHAVIORAL AND SOCIAL SCIENCES FORT BENNING GA

Personal Author(s):

• Dyer, Jean L.
• Salter, Robin S.

Report Date:

2001-12-01

Pagination or Media Count:

132.0

Abstract:

Variations in computer-based training CBT procedures were compared in training the skills and knowledge required of a prototype map interface for the Land Warrior system. Soldiers from four Infantry courses participated, representing the chain of command within an Infantry platoon, from platoon leader to rifleman. Soldiers were first trained on codes that uniquely identified individuals and units on the map. Then soldiers learned how to use map functions such as pan, zoom, determine range, and find individuals and units. Lessons that contained a large volume of information before soldiers could apply that information and commit it to memory resulted in low scores on both the code and map exercises. Breaking up the content into smaller chunks of information tended to be more effective. Although soldiers who learned the map on their own via an exploratory condition had the lowest map performance, exploratory learning may have potential as these soldiers spent relatively little time exploring. The results demonstrate the importance of adapting to individual differences in the learning rate of soldiers. They also provide insights regarding how to design effective and efficient CBT for digital systems.

Descriptors:

• *DIGITAL SYSTEMS
• *ARMY TRAINING
• *COMPUTER AIDED INSTRUCTION
• SKILLS
• TRAINING DEVICES
• ARMY PERSONNEL
• TEACHING METHODS
• MEMORY DEVICES

Subject Categories:

• Computer Programming and Software
• Military Forces and Organizations

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE