Project Title: Analysis of a Technical Training Course for Specific Part-Task Training Implementation and Enhancement Based on the Addition of New Tech
Project completed December 2018
Collaborators:
- PI: Dr. Todd P. Hubbard, Associate Professor Clarence E. Page Professor of Aviation, University of Oklahoma
- PI: Dr. Keith Hargrove, Dean of the College of Engineering, Tennessee State University
- Co-PI: Dr. Ivan Mosely, Professor and Department Chair, Tennessee State University
- Industry Partners: Computer System Designers, Leidos
- FAA Sponsor and Technical Monitor: Shawn Mansfield, Technical Training (AJI-2)
Abstract:
The purpose of this study is to identify specific “chunks or part-tasks” of technical training of an FAA chosen course curriculum and follow the evaluation of the training to successful completion of tasks in a full simulation environment. An analysis of the necessary part-tasks will receive an agile Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation (ADDIE) approach of design and development with detailed evaluation processes used throughout. This analysis will determine how the part-task training and the instructional program as a whole accomplished a seamless integration into successful performance on the whole job task using
new and more technological devices. The analysis will involve the use of diverse technological devices supporting a multi-generational learner population creating a more interactive, higher level of learning on a per task basis. These methods are designed to improve skill retention and improve the transfer of skills to operations for trainees at each training stage. Technology such as laptops, iPads, and mobile devices, including scenario based problem solving will support and stimulate the learners’ progress through the incremental plan of learning. Specifically, technology will ensure remote capability for various aspects of the simulation (ghost pilots, etc.), immediate feedback (scoring/grading) on success/failure for simulation participants, and realistic simulations.
Expected Project Outcomes:
- Examine an identified course for major job tasks and related sub-tasks.
- Develop curriculum for part-task training per each major job task to include specific media and instructional strategy.
- Assess the progress of each part-task learning element for progression to the next step.
- Assess the success of the delivery/instructional strategy.
- Evaluate the success of part-task steps toward the final full simulation task.
Value of Research:
As the older systems are retired and new ones replace them, technicians will need to be trained. However, the value of this project is its demonstration that through collaborative execution of a job task, the technicians who maintain the equipment need not be thoroughly trained for every contingency. Fewer of the technicians will achieve complete mastery of a piece of equipment. The technicians who touch the equipment will be less qualified, because they will have ready access to those who have mastery. For each task, a master technician monitors the work and ensures that the best quality of maintenance has been accomplished. The master and the field technician will be working as a collaborative team. The key technology that makes this possible is Augmented Reality. The objectives and milestones of this project, once completed, will demonstrate to the FAA that this kind of relationship can work.
In The Future of the NAS, workforce challenges were mentioned, but there is not a clear path toward the development of a redesigned workforce document. Some jobs will be eliminated and new technology will most likely introduce new jobs. By adopting the features of the collaborative team approach for tech ops, the FAA will be able to remain agile. This will reduce the price of doing business.