Scenario Based Decision Skills Training for Geographically Distributed Teams

The Decision Skills Training Web Module (DST-WM) is focused on exploring the feasibility of--and exploiting team participation in--scenario-based training to greatly enhance problem-solving and decision-making skills. The DST-WM is initially designed asan on-line module to assist instructor/operators brief, run and debrief scenario-based distributed exercises. The DST-WM key innovations are encapsulation of the decision-making skills being trained per scenario, including basic-team DM-skills toscenario-specific DM-skills. Specifically, the DST-WM identifies the DM Training Objectives linked to Observable Scenario-Based Performance Criteria, while also providing Scenario-Based Scoring Logic which in turn is utilized for participant debrief,coupled with After-Action-Review (AAR) and participant records. Potentially, scenario results can be utilized for customization of DM training to Soldiers/Civilians for the Next Block of Scenario-Based Training.DST-WMs will evolve to higher levels of automation in support of the instructor/operators, eventually culminating in on-line intelligent tutors for some of the lower-level team decision-making skills training. Realistically, effective advanced teamdecision-making training will always require a human expert's interaction. The DST-WM is envisioned to organize and automate the scenario-based data and information for the instructor(s) and distributed teams benefit. DST-WM runs on existing GOTS/COTSE-Learning Networks, On-Line Gaming Networks and supports interoperability/integration with HLA/DIS Distributed Simulations. The Decisions Skills Training - Web Module will utilize existing GOTS/COTS E-Learning Networks, On-Line Gaming Networks and existing HLA/DIS networks to provide integrated Scenario Based Training. The module encapsulates the decision-making trainingobjectives, the observable performance measures, coupled with the scoring logic, debrief, AAR and participant records all from a Scenario Based context. Specifically, the module stores and codifies the initial cognitive task analysis which identifies theknowledge, skills and experiences required for competent mission performance for a given team context. SDS's Phase I team context for the DST-WM prototype will focus on Emergency Response Teams (ERT) (fire, police, hazardous materials, medical) andreactions to natural disasters (medical, civil preparedness, government). The specific scenario basis context will be