The past decade has seen advances in instrumentation of live training ranges. For example, when combined, the Location of Hit and Miss (LOMAH) system and the Targetry Range Automated Control and Recording (TRACR) system send virtually immediate feedback on marksmanship performance to trainers, via a tablet computer. However, despite digital availability, the performance data are not used for individual feedback, analyzed, nor automatically shared with any other training management or readiness systems. A proof-of-principle prototype system was developed, which demonstrated how the use of the Experience Application Programming Interface (xAPI) could be used to collect valuable training data and support (1) individual feedback, (2) aggregated data views for trainers and range operations personnel, (3) flexible data views for training researchers, and (4) automated availability of qualification data to the Army Training Management System. The xAPI was developed to allow the collection of learner data from different types of learning experiences, and to make the data available to other applications. The LOMAH-TRACR data were converted to xAPI statements, which were sent via an encrypted wireless network to a Learning Record Store (LRS). Using a pin number, individual trainees could access a visualization of their own data on a mobile device, and be given a link to learning content, personalized by the software’s analysis of their individual shot group pattern; however, no actual Soldier testing occurred as part of the project. Trainers and range operations personnel could also view data, and filter it according to their needs. An unanticipated benefit was the ability of range personnel to identify operational defects in LOMAH targets. A third “researcher� dashboard was created to allow for analysts to select data and export for further analysis. A future benefit will be the ability to integrate data from simulation and live training, in order to determine the most efficient and cost-effective combination to achieve desired levels of performance.
Putting Live Firing Range Data to Work Using the xAPI
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