Formative Evaluation of a Massively Multi-Player Persistent (MMP) Environment for Asymmetric Warfare Exercises

摘要

The U.S. Army RDECOM-STTC conducted research on distributed, multi- player simulations for training dismounted Soldier tasks. They requested U.S. Army Research Institute support formative evaluations by supporting briefings, demonstrations, and collecting usability information during exercises. Two usability exercises addressed a standard checkpoint scenario, a third evaluation was conducted during an Army Post Emergency Operations exercise, and a final evaluation supported a pre-deployment Battalion Staff exercise. During evaluation and development, changes were made to the voice system, Semi- Automated Forces (OneSAF) were added, and simulated radio networks were implemented. Added functionality enabled Soldiers to conduct standard Army tasks and trainers to insert threats and conduct AARs. The Soldiers' indicated that working with a simulated three dimensional environment dramatically changed their approach to the mission. Conducting rehearsals within a low- fidelity simulation was considered an enhancement to the training value of field exercises. The gathered opinion-based information indicates that the system can prepare troops for more expensive live drills and actual deployment; integrating basic Warrior skills with reinforced situational awareness, decision making, and asymmetric warfare skills. The program is continuing with new development by RDECOM-STTC, and ARI is using the AW-VTT to research challenges in the use of distributed, game-based simulations for training Soldiers.