Principled Design of an Augmented Reality Trainer for Medics

Augmented reality (AR) offers the ability to enhance existing combat medic training by including perceptual cues and adaptive training elements to traditional simulation-based training using manikins. Unveil has developed a training system called the Macrocognitive AR Trainer (MART). MART is designed to foster the development of macrocognitive skills (e.g., sensemaking, assessment skills, mental models, treatment planning). However, there is little research support for how AR-based training elements affect student learning outcomes. In this Phase II effort, we propose to further develop MART to allow students to train with AR hardware (e.g., headset, tablet) alone or in conjunction with a medical manikin. We also propose to evaluate the training components our system with a series of formative studies and user feedback sessions, followed by a summative evaluation. The findings of these evaluations will inform a principled guide to developing AR-based training. We also plan to expand our existing commercialization activities to military and civilian sectors. Our team includes Unveil, Ohio State University (a leader in medical simulation training), Stottler Henke (intelligent tutoring and adaptive training experts), and Innovative Tactical Training Solutions (producers of a combat training manikin). Expected outcomes are the MART prototype and a principled guide for creating AR-based training.