As the U.S. Army continues to develop more powerful and more complex digital systems, both training needs and training opportunities are being considered. These highly technical weapons and information systems are upgraded frequently, causing an almost continuous need for training, both for operators and for leaders and staff members who use the information to conduct battlefield command and control. The challenges for trainers and training developers are to keep up with the software drops, deliver incremental training that highlights critical modifications, and provide support so that units can practice using the systems without incurring high training costs or extra wear and tear on systems. By increasing the opportunities for distributed computer-based training that incorporates cognitive learning principles, skill acquisition and retention can be improved.

This paper describes research and development on ways to incorporate instructional techniques and cognitive principles in various distributed training presentations, including standalone (CD-ROM delivered), internet-based, and embedded training. Analysis of a variety of principles and techniques resulted in selection of a limited set to be used in prototype training module development. The prototype training module addresses operator training for the Force XXI Battle Command Brigade and Below (FBCB2), the Army's vehicle-mounted digital system for distributing information to provide situational awareness. The prototype module is PC-based, and demonstrates how the techniques and principles can be incorporated in distributed training.

In this presentation, we will describe how the selected instructional techniques and cognitive principles can be used in distributed computer-based training. We will provide screen captures that illustrate how each technique and principle can be instantiated in individual operator training for FBCB2. Finally, we will discuss lessons learned and issues for future research and development.