Applied Cognitive Task Analysis (ACTA) Methodology

摘要

The impact of technology on many tasks and functions has resulted in greatlyincreased demands on the cognitive skills of workers. More procedural or predictable tasks are now handled by smart machines, while humans have become responsible for difficult cognitive tasks. The increase in cognitive demands placed on workers has created a need for training that targets cognitive skills. In most cases, however, the task analyses that drive training development are conducted using methodologies that focus primarily on behaviors. The training community needs tools that will allow access to experienced based cognitive skills. The primary goal of this project was to develop streamlined methods of Cognitive Task Analysis that would fill this need. We have made important progression this direction. We have developed streamlined methods of Cognitive Task Analysis. Our evaluation study indicates that the methods are usable and aid in the development of important, accurate training materials addressing cognitive issues. In addition, we have developed a CD-based stand alone instructional package, which will make the Applied Cognitive Task Analysis (ACTA) tools widely accessible. A survey of the software conducted with both Navy instructional Systems Specialists (ISSs) and private sector Instructional Designers indicates that the software is successful in communicating the ACTA techniques.