The U.S. Army has started transforming its training approach to focus on lifelong learning. A key piece of this transformation is shifting the role of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) schools from a focus on resident training to a mix of resident training and support of distance learning in the units. This is a paradigm shift that requires a major shift to the development and support of distance learning simulations.

The Signal Center at Ft. Gordon is leading the implementation of lifelong learning. It is creating the University of Information Technology (UIT), and is using assignment-oriented training to reduce the time for new recruits to get to their units, trained in the skills needed for their first assignment.

The Signal Center is using Virtual Reality simulations that are delivered over the Internet from the UIT website to unit computers for training soldiers going to different assignments. These simulations must meet stringent requirements. The missions of the units may preclude extended access to the Internet, so the training must operate in stand-alone mode, and must be downloadable in segments using a modem and a phone line in under 15 minutes. The simulations must run on a broad range of computers with varied performance capabilities.

This paper describes two simulations developed for the UIT. The first trains operation and maintenance of the AN/TRC-173B, a Radio Terminal Set. The second trains operation and maintenance of the FBCB2 command, control, and communication system. These simulations contain a series of lessons for each skill that help the soldier go through the learning stages of Familiarization, Acquiring the skill, Practicing the skill, and Validating the skill, while teaching the soldier to use the Technical Manuals. They combine high fidelity 3D virtual reality views with 2D displays to bring the technical manual alive.