Enhancing training systems design: Implementing an event-based approach

While human factors has become increasingly involved in many aspects of training systems design (e.g., displays, functional allocation), other aspects such as software architectures and databases, have not received the same level of involvement. These aspects are important because they provide the infrastructure by which the training environment is generated. Unfortunately, few frameworks exist to support the design of training infrastructures from a human factors perspective. One framework with potential application is the Event-Based Approach to Training (EBAT). EBAT has been empirically tested, and operationally demonstrated in numerous training environments. EBAT can guide the design of system infrastructures by highlighting linkages between all phases of training (e.g., exercise design, measurement, feedback). The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of: (a) learning premises important for training system design, (b) the EBAT framework, (c) EBAT-derived design guidelines and engineering payoffs, and (d) future challenges for training systems design.