Combat Situation Awareness (CSA) Model-Based Characterizations of Marine Corps Training and Operations

摘要

A model for characterizing situation awareness (SA) was tested by applying its elements to performance data gathered on Marine Corps Infantrymen from both training and operational deployment. The objective was to determine whether model-based factors of SA could be discerned strictly from operational settings, as contrasted with controlled laboratory conditions. The method involved the collection of 'critical incident' reports of serious military failures, gathered from training and operations, which could be attributed to decision-making breakdowns. Reports were examined for instances of model- relevant features and results were analyzed as frequency plots. Such an empirical approach to performance analysis has the benefits of strong contextual validity (data gathered amid free-running mission activities) and clearly-documented military consequences. Initial results showed interpretable differences in the type of SA breakdowns that could account for these incidents, categorized by level of leadership, mission, setting (i.e., training or operations), and other contributing factors.