A Framework for Experiential-learning Design (FRED) with associated tools for Just-in-time Authoring of Cultural Knowledge (JACK)

Overseas contingency operations and the growing importance of irregular warfare have created an increased need to train military personnel on non-kinetic activities in diverse socio-cultural environments. Serious games --simulation based training using computer game technology -- offers a promising approach to meeting this need, but the technology must first surmount challenges in the form of high development costs, poor integration with instructional methods and science of learning, low fidelity in Non-Player Character (NPC) cultural behaviors, and limited capability for customization post-deployment. To address these challenges, CHI Systems proposes a novel instructional and architectural vision called the Framework for Experiential-learning Design (FRED) with associated tools for Just-in-time Authoring of Cultural Knowledge (JACK). Cultural and non-kinetic skill training applications created and delivered with FRED integrate didactic instruction, game-based practice with individualized scaffolding, adaptive instructional sequencing, culturally realistic NPCs, and trainee performance assessment, all driven from an explicit hierarchy of learning objectives. The FRED architecture and JACK tools will leverage CHI System’s VECTOR, CulturePad, PAC and CAPOTE technologies to create a low-cost, computationally light-weight, deployable and transportable architecture for developing and delivering game-based cultural and non-kinetic training that is tied to the science of learning.