This paper addresses the role that simulation may be able to play in enhancing the transfer of skill from the training to the operational environment, and reports on a major simulator program being undertaken by TAC Insurance in Victoria, Australia. TAC insurance has funded the development of two mid-range simulators with advanced visual and auditory systems and a partial motion base, as well as sponsoring a major training research program addressing both content and process issues in driver training using simulators. The approach is based on the premise that current driver training systems impart necessary but not sufficient skills. The program provides a departure from traditional methods of training and investigates the type and degree of benefit that simulators may bring to the provision of training to near-licensed or just-licensed drivers. Simulators have the potential to aid the higher-order driving processes of risk perception, skill calibration, attentional control and the management of high workload. Simulation has the promise to support training effectively in such areas because it provides a set of capabilities that are difficult to accomplish by other means. This paper discusses the special role of simulation in providing training control, training efficiency, performance measurement, feedback provision, and training environment manipulation. The structure of the proposed research, training development and evaluation program with the TAC simulators is described. (A).
Abstract