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Training, Simulation & Performance Improvement

Today’s training is advancing toward blended learning, which combines physical with virtual approaches to learning. Southwest Research Institute is a leader in developing tools in blending learning, visual analytics, immersive simulations and other emerging technologies to meet client training needs.

We are leading multiple research efforts in the area of reusable content using the Sharable Content Object Reference Model, or SCORM, a collection of standards and specifications developed by the U.S. Advanced Distributed Learning initiative, to minimize costs, standardize content and improve content portability. SwRI analysts are converting instructor-led classroom curricula to sharable content, capturing and transforming expert knowledge, and using the model to develop simulations.

Analysts developed an A-10C aircraft simulator within the physical constraints of an obsolete A-10A cockpit model using our Generalized Operations Simulation Environment, or GOSE. The system uses passive haptics (inset) to provide highly accurate tracking and interaction techniques.

Through a collaborative internal research project, our research team developed the Cognitive Adaptive Exploitation of Signals and Associated Relationships system. This application was designed to process and analyze the millions of radio signals collected for defense and national security purposes each day. CAESAR meets the evolving challenges of data reduction, organization and handling of large numbers of signals using intelligent standardization, filtering, management and visual analytic techniques built into the system.

Staff members have delivered a system to The Boeing Company in support of mission crew training in AWACS aircraft in the United Kingdom. Based on a distributed simulation system originally developed for the U.S. Air Force, the trainer allows air crews to participate in stand-alone or collective training exercises with other simulations for jet, rotary and multi-engine aircrews (simulation.swri.org).

As budgets for military trainers and simulators diminish, we are developing efficient and low-cost techniques to upgrade existing systems. For example, the Generalized Operations Simulation Environment is a scalable, modular architecture that uses web and PC technologies to repurpose system-specific hardware simulators with reconfigurable software-based systems. With GOSE, we created an A-10C trainer using a virtual reality overlay applied to an obsolete A-10A cockpit model. SwRI’s graphics engine, GraIL™, provides high quality, three-dimensional simulations for GOSE and other SwRI systems at significantly less cost than commercial engines.

Some road-stream crossings (far left) can interfere with the natural movements of aquatic organisms through the channel. Our staff is developing an e-learning course for designing road-stream crossings that allow organisms to pass through unimpeded.

Using a 3-D computer model and intuitive user interface, our prototype engine inspection maintenance trainer allows students to virtually inspect jet engines from the inside (using a borescope) or outside (visually). The trainer uses high fidelity graphics to simulate engines with normal wear and includes a variety of settings to simulate defects in engine fans and compressor rotors.

We continue enhancing a powerful, web-based system that delivers, manages and reports on training operations for the Air Force Air Mobility Command (instructional.swri.org). The latest module monitors individual instruction and allows evaluators to assess training effectiveness.

The design of culverts and other road-stream crossings can interfere with the passage of aquatic organisms. For the U.S. Forest Service, our staff is blending e-learning with wilderness experiential techniques to develop web- and CD-based courses to train users to evaluate and design road-stream crossings that allow unimpeded passage of aquatic organisms.

As baby boomers age out of the workforce, employers are experiencing a shortage of personnel with certain types of expertise. We developed an expert knowledge transformation process to identify valuable expertise and capture it for reuse using “just-in-time” information, training and embedded performance support.

SwRI operates offices across the country to support the onsite training needs of our clients (courseware.swri.org). The staff in O’Fallon, Illinois, recently moved into a new facility that enabled us to expand services at Scott Air Force Base. Other locations in Layton and Ogden, Utah; Panama City, Florida; Killeen, Texas; and Oklahoma City also aid military training needs.

Visit tsystems.swri.org for more information or contact Vice President Dr. Katharine C. Golas at (210) 522-2094 or kgolas@swri.org.

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