Computer-based Approaches for Training Interactive Digital Map Displays

摘要

Five variations of computer-based training (CBT) for learning to use functions underlying a digital map interface were compared using 85 Infantry One-Station-Unit Training (OSUT) Soldiers and 67 Infantry Officer Basic Course (IOBC) Soldiers. The variations were a pure map exploration condition, a lesson followed by exercise condition, a guided-exploratory condition in which the map functions were learned through solving problems, a lesson followed by map exploration condition, and a condition in which Soldiers could select the mode(s) of training they preferred. The results showed that the pure exploratory condition was the least effective for all Soldiers, particularly those in OSUT. The traditional lesson and exercise combination was effective for all the participants as was the guided-exploratory, problem-solving condition. The condition in which Soldiers could select their own mode(s) of training produced quite different training strategies on the part of the OSUT and IOBC Soldiers. IOBC Soldiers used more consistent and fewer training strategies than did OSUT Soldiers, whereas OSUT Soldiers benefited from the more structured environments that provided performance feedback. IOBC Soldiers did not necessarily require exercises, but did benefit from the lesson information and the capability to control their training strategy. The findings reinforce the need to tailor training to Soldiers when the target population is diverse and common skills and knowledge must be acquired. The results suggest that giving the same training to all participants is not the most efficient, effective, nor motivating strategy.