Predictive Validity of UAS/RPA Sensor Operator Training Qualification Measures.

摘要

The jobs of unmanned aerial system/remotely piloted aircraft (UAS/RPA) pilot and sensor operator (SO) are relatively new in aviation and views on who is best suited to fill these positions are evolving. There are few published studies that have examined the entry requirements for UAS/RPA training or the predictive utility of selection methods. In the US Air Force (USAF) selection methods and aptitude requirements for UAS/RPA pilots are very similar to those for manned aircraft pilots and have shown similar levels of predictive validity for both. USAF SOs are enlisted aviators who work side-by-side with UAS/RPA pilots, providing assistance with all aspects of aircraft employment and sensor management. Qualification for SO training involves medical, citizenship, and security standards and aptitude requirements (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery [ASVAB]). The current study examined the predictive validity of the ASVAB for SO training grades. Participants were students enrolled in three SO courses (Basic Sensor Operator Course [BSOC] n = 461, MQ-1 Initial Qualification Requirements Training [MQ-1 IQRT] n = 430, or MQ-9 Initial Qualification Training MQ-9 [IQRT], n = 249). The training criterion was average grade on written tests. The two ASVAB composites used for SO training qualification (General and Electronics) demonstrated good predictive validity for all three courses (BSOC, .541 and .535; MQ-1 IQRT, .583 and .553; MQ-9 IQRT,.357 and .334). Although current selection methods are effective, based on results of UAS/RPA job/task analyses, the Air Force is examining the utility of other measures to supplement the ASVAB.