Combined Arms Structured Simulation-Based Training Programs: Reflections of Key Developers

Abstract

A series of research and development programs on structured simulation-based training (SST) were conducted during the period 1993-1999. These programs focused on developing SST training support packages (TSPs) to meet collective training requirements for the combined arms at echelons of brigade and below. An SST development methodology was also produced. The purpose of the methodology was to support future TSP developments as requirements for them are identified. This report represents the second portion of a two-part examination of issues related to SST. The first report described the history of these programs and their lessons learned. This report presents findings in three areas which were either not directly addressed or insufficiently resolved in published SST reports. These areas are: the respective roles of the constructivism and behaviorism/Systems Approach to Training instructional theories in designing the SST TSPs; needs for additional information and SST-related research; and planning and logistical requirements for integrating and maintaining SST as a part of the U.S. Army training system. The information needed to address these three areas was obtained from structured interviews and questionnaires. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. SUBJECT TERMS HI FOREWORDVirtual and constructive simulation training systems have been increasingly used by the Army in an attempt to mitigate increasing resource constraints. The U.S. Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences (ARI) has shown, however, that while these systems can be very effective, the extent of this effectiveness depends, in part, on how they are used. The ARI's Armored Forces Research Unit has conducted research and development efforts into structured simulationbased training (SST) in order to maximize the Army's ability to realize the training benefits offered by its simulation training systems. This effort has been directed towards collective training requirements of combined arms forces at echelons of brigade and below.A companion report (Shlechter & Finley, [in preparation]) describes the history of the SST programs, and analyzes the SST instructional design processes, training products, and lessons learned as documented in published reports and training support packages (TSPs). The purpose was to make widely available the knowledge and insights gained from the SST programs. This report completes the effort. It draws upon interviews and questionnaires completed by key SST developers, providing important insights beyond those originally documented and illuminating actions necessary to make the use of SST TSPs a routine part of the Army's training practices. The Armored Forces Research Unit of the U.S Army Research institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences (ARI completed a series of structured simulation-based training (SST research and development (R&D) programs during the period, 1993-1999. These programs focused on developing SSTtraining support packages (TSPs) to meet collective training requi...