Game-Based Training for Airline Pilots

摘要

For decades high fidelity simulators have been used in aviation training; they allow ample skills training without the cost of real life training, and training under conditions which would be impossible or highly dangerous in real life. While simulations are very suitable for training aviator skills and procedures, they do not fully support the training needs of future pilots. The highly automated flight decks of modern aircraft necessitate a shift in training needs towards cognitive flexibility and dealing with unexpected situations. Moreover, future pilots are part of the "digital generation" and have a different way of thinking and of information processing. The highly regulated and standardised simulation-based training currently used in Airline Training Programs fails to accommodate these needs. One possible method to supplement simulation-based training can be game-based learning. While supporting 21st century skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and problem solving more easily, games are also more flexible in timing and location of training. Games are not a one size fits all solution to training objectives that are not sufficiently covered by simulator training. The game environment, mechanics, and play need to fit to the training objectives. Design of game-based training requires a good understanding of game principles as well as aviation training needs. Apart from their inherent and perhaps unique training potential, games are a good match with the skills, attitudes and expectations of the new generation of "digital native" airline pilots. This paper provides a literature review on game-based learning and an overview of relevant experiences with game-based learning. This leads to a perspective on how game-based training can be used effectively for (student) airline pilots.