In the contemporary landscape of military training, the reliance on simulator-based training and the introduction of novel training technologies has surged, promising both enhanced efficiency in training warfighters and a competitive edge when facing adversaries. However, amid this influx of innovation, a critical void remains: the absence of robust methodologies to assess the integration and impact of these training technologies on relevant outcomes (e.g., readiness, proficiency, performance). Stated another way, a systematic approach is needed to demonstrate that these training technologies provide adequate or better training than the legacy simulators and live training they are augmenting and replacing. Further, there lacks robust guidance on where, when, and how to implement new training technologies. This lack of guidance can impact the acquisition of training technology, development of training curricula and instruction, and the currency of training requirements. Even with current ad-hoc methods, military personnel lack a data-driven approach to establishing new requirements and providing actionable feedback to vendors on training technology deficiencies. As a result, the purpose of the following paper is two-fold. First, the following paper will discuss the importance of a data-driven understanding when integrating and evaluating the impact of new training technologies. Next, the following paper will provide data and recommendations from three case studies that have systematically evaluated and compared different training technologies within the United States Air Force (USAF) and efforts towards modernizing the Joint Simulation Environment (JSE). Through this analysis, we advocate for a paradigm shift towards a comprehensive and systematic evaluation approach that prioritizes not only technological advancement but also the effective integration and utilization of these technologies within military training to guide future requirements. By addressing this critical gap, we aim to catalyze actions that prioritize data-driven decision-making as well as discuss best practices in an era defined by rapid technological evolution.

Keywords
AUGMENTED AND VIRTUAL REALITY (AR/VR);EVALUATION;SIMULATORS;TECHNOLOGY;TRAINING

Additional Keywords