Validation Of Visual Threat Recognition And Avoidance Training Through Analogical Transfer

enables forces to respond quickly and operate effectively during threat engagements. This initiative combines state-of-the-art visual, interactive simulations with intelligent tutoring methodologies to train the visual scanners. VTRAT is an automated virtual intelligent instructional training aid, designed to introduce or refresh scanners on visual recognition of threats and on their duties during a threat engagement. This paper describes two studies that employ a backward transfer procedure for validating the training effectiveness of VTRAT. In experiment 1, 34 Air Force aircrew personnel were tested at Air Force Special Operations Command on their identification of surface-to-air missiles (SAMs). Several types of SAMs were simulated and presented to participants. Participants identified the model of SAM, and the accuracy of trajectory (whether or not the SAM would hit their simulated aircraft). Participants were assigned to either a novice group (no combat experience) or expert group (combat experience in either the Kosovo or Iraqi air campaigns). The experts outperformed the novices on all performance measures. In experiment 2, 39 aircraft scanners with the 19th Special Operations Squadron at Hurlbert Field, FL completed VTRAT training upon return from deployment in Afghanistan. There was a significant positive correlation between number of antiaircraft artillery (AAA) threats observed in theater and AAA threat recognition in VTRAT. Together these two studies provide evidence supporting the validity of VTRAT training for recognizing and avoiding visual threats. Additionally, survey results indicated that scanners rated the VTRAT visuals to be highly realistic and VTRAT training to be valuabl