Field Evaluation of a General Purpose Simulator.

The use of a general purpose simulator (GPS) to teach Air Force technicians diagnostic and repair procedures for specialized aircraft radar systems is described. An EC II simulator manufactured by Educational Computer Corporation was adapted to resemble the actual configuration technicians would encounter in the field. Data acquired in the evaluation included: (1) the experience level of the participating personnel, (2) learning patterns using the simulator, (3) evaluation of the training potential, and (4) attitudes and acceptance. All personnel exposed to the GPS stated that learning was easy, and tests given the technicians after their training sessions indicated a high level of achievement. The system was generally found to be acceptable to trainees, although some participants indicated a preference for more traditional teaching methods. The cost of using the GPS was found to be less than 10 percent of the costs of an actual equipment trainer. (DGC)