Human Factors Analysis of Two Prototype Army Maintenance Training and Evaluation Simulation System (AMTESS) Devices

摘要

A human factors analysis of two prototype Army Maintenance Training and Evaluation Simulation System (AMTESS) devices was conducted. A variety of analytic procedures were applied to assess the degree to which the devices met standards in the areas of hardware, software, and instructional features of the courseware. Both devices met hardware and software standards critical to the performance of their training function, but the courseware did not appear to have been designed around important learning principles. The most important recommendation of the AMTESS devices is that courseware design must be emphasized much more. Principles of learning and instructional design are the primary source of ideas for hardware and software device features. Courseware and hardware must fit together, but courseware should not be designed around hardware while hardware is left free to develop independently. Avenues of research are suggested by this recommendation because determining effects of different instructional procedures and sequences in courseware is an empirical matter. Studies in this area might include the effects of varying levels of practice on aqcuisition and retention, the effects of different chaining procedures, and the effects of systematic review on student performance. Retention has been found to be generally poorer in computer-based than in conventional textbook courses (Splittgerber, 1979). These studies will suggest capabilities that should be automatically performed by the computer.