Design of human computer interfaces that support instructors in conducting training events can be a challenge. In some cases,
instructor operator stations (IOSs) are not designed around the task of instruction. Without a human factors approach to
design, resultant systems can increase the workload of the instructors, possibly decreasing the training value of the event.
The objective of the Office of Naval Research (ONR) sponsored Adaptive Training for Combat Information Center (ATCIC)
effort is to utilize adaptive training research to drive the design of IOS concepts that support instructor effectiveness and
increase efficiency through the reduction of workload for monitoring and debriefing scenario based exercises. To achieve
this objective, the team utilized the McCracken & Aldrich (1984) method of predicting the Visual, Auditory, Cognitive,
Psychomotor (VACP) task demands. As a measure of potential improvement in temporal demands on instructors, a timebased
predictive workload analysis identified potential impacts of design improvements on time spent on each task within a
scenario based training exercise. This guided the development and evaluation of an instructor interface to support
observation of student performance, assessment, event driven performance checklists, and remediations. Results indicated a
26% reduction in total estimated instructor task time required to conduct a scenario based training event when supported by
adaptive training tools. This approach complemented empirical user evaluations of the IOS in a field setting (Milham,
Pharmer, & Fok, 2015). This paper will discuss the approach, findings, and how this method can be integrated into an
iterative design approach to address workload issues with operators.