Scaling Scenarios for Synthetic Task Environments: Issues Related to Fidelity and Validity

Abstract

In this paper we describe how synthetic task environments (STE) were scaled for multi-operator training and performance research goals using distributed PC-based systems. As analogues of operational performance domains, STE systems offer the opportunity to model, assess, and train underlying cognitive aspects of expert decision making and operational performance. They also offer advantages that complement the highly realistic battle simulation systems used in military distributed mission training (DMT). STE platforms are not as realistic as DMT systems; instead, they focus on a predetermined subset of functional and cognitive aspects of performance. The effectiveness of these STE systems depends on the degree to which scenarios are appropriately scaled along multiple dimensions of psychological fidelity and the degree to which scenarios elicit and measure performance constructs of interest. In this paper we describe issues considered in our effort to scale a complex multi-team mission scenario to meet research and training goals.