Incidental Changes to Training Capabilities Due to Technological Improvements

During the development and enhancement of simulator systems, new technologies are incorporated to improve the training capabilities of the system. The degree to which changes to the simulator system improve training capabilities in anticipated areas is of primary interest; however, an evaluation of benefits from newly incorporated technologies should consider the impact on training capabilities in other, less directly related areas. The current study utilized previously developed methodology which identifies and evaluates the fidelity and deficiencies of a simulation system. The process involved utilizing Mission Essential Competencies and Subject Matter Experts to determine the training capabilities of a simulation system. The work was applied to the development of a Deployable Tactical Trainer as a method of providing feedback on the system. Data from the process were obtained throughout the development of the simulator, and the current study presents a comparison of the evaluation of the system before and after a meaningful upgrade to the technology of the simulation system. At issue is determining whether or not the upgrade resulted in the expected changes to the training capabilities. Incidental changes to training capabilities of the system were identified and are discussed, presenting an overall evaluation of the expected versus unexpected effects on the training capabilities of the system. Implications for the importance of building a global awareness of the simulator system are discussed. The growing dependence on simulation systems for training increases the impact of changes to the system on pilot readiness.