Research in diagnostics demonstrates that a critical difference between expert and non-expert technicians is experts have a good conceptual device model similar to the actual device structure while non-experts have inaccurate models generated from inferential misconceptions. Our goal was to bypass the novice-expert continuum by eliminating the novice's generation of misconceptions. Our approach was to develop a computerized adventure game whose underlying "world" was isomorphic to a specific device, (i.e., F-16 Flight Control Pitch Trim Subsystem [FCS]). Adventure game players develop maps or diagrams of adventure game environments. By taking advantage of this game strategy, novices can generate device structures by playing an adventure game with an environment isomorphic to the device. The statistical results of a pilot study showed that the adventure game training medium (1) facilitated learning of the structure, function and troubleshooting of the FCS, (2) decreased the probability of misconception generation, and (3) was a highly motivating learning environment.
F-16 Flight Control System Training Game
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