Innovative Training Concepts For Use In Distributed Interactive Simulation Environments

This report describes innovative approaches for conducting training using emerging simulation technology. It is intended as a forward looking reference for training developers and trainers interested in conducting specific types of training exercises within a Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS) environment. The report presents five innovative training concepts that can be structured within a DIS environment for delivery of five types of training exercises including: (a) a Battle Staff Planning Exercise. (b) a Leader's Reconnaissance Exercise. (c) a Mission Rehearsal Exercise (Electronic Sandtable), (d) a Mission Execution Exercise (Electronic Sandbox) and (e) an Information Management Exercise. The report concludes with a description of the implementation and tryout of one of these five concepts, an Information Management Exercise (IMEX). Innovative training concepts, Information Management Exercises, Distributed interactive simulation, Simulation-Based training, Automated command, Control and communication, Training tools.

"This research was part of a larger program to develop a methodology for multi-Service training of Close Air Support (CAS), using Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS) technology. This paper summarizes all assessment of user reactions to the training. Survey questionnaires. group interviews, and observations of the training were used to obtain data on to questions. What value is added to existing Service training cycles by the DIS methodology developed? How well did the training work? A key finding was that the distributed methodology fills a critical gap in training multi-Service CAS coordination tasks. An important potential application of the research is to 'ramp-up' training in preparation for rotations to combat training centers. Many lessons were learned about how to develop and apply survey and interview instruments as part of a larger evaluation of DIS training. For example, we 'discovered' that for multiple sites and services 'one size does not fit all.' Assessment instruments must be carefully prepared in different versions to suit the varying perspectives and roles of multiple services."--DTIC.

"This study report provides an overview of critical training issues facing the Army as the 21st% Century Force becomes increasingly digital. The focus of this report is on understanding the significant change brought about by digitization and the ramifications that may result in degraded mode or back-up training requirements. This report is the first of three prepared under the U.S. Army Research Institute's Studies and Analysis effort titled Back-Up Training Requirements for the Digitized Battlefield. Issues and concerns documented in this report are addressed in two subsequent study reports: Analysis of Emerging Digital and Back-Up Training Requirements and Issues and Recommendations: Training the Digital Force. The impetus for this effort was provided by the Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel's Directorate of Personnel Technologies. Of concern was the lack of analysis regarding how the Army should address training and sustaining conventional or back-up skills for operations when digital system capabilities become degraded. This issue will become increasingly important as digitization of the force increases and resources decrease."--DITC.

"At the request of the Commanding General, U.S. Army Infantry Center, this report assesses whether current digitization efforts for the light forces are addressing the specific needs of light forces, as opposed to more simply migrating heavy/mechanized digital solutions to light platforms. Twelve Infantry leaders, selected by the Chief, Dismounted Battlespace Battle Lab, provided information: the most critical digital concerns for light Infantry; differences between light and heavy tactical operations centers (TOCs); battle captain requirements; modifications of light infantry tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) resulting from digitization; and 'soldier as a platform' requirements. The most frequently mentioned light Infantry TOC concern was the need for user-friendly, information management capabilities that will allow: situational awareness of friendly and enemy units, more accurate and simpler battle tracking, and integrated access to information across battlefield operating systems. Responses also indicate significant efforts must be made to minimize information overload. New training programs, TTPs, and automated tools must be developed to permit fall utilization of new digital capabilities. The new digital systems must be lightweight, durable, and maintainable, and contain reliable communication links with adequate bandwidth. Relevant results from the Warrior Focus and Focused Dispatch Advanced Warfighting Experiments are also summarized."--DTIC.