Evaluation of Computer-Based Situation Awareness Training for General Aviation Pilots

This article describes the evaluation of 6 different computer-based training modules created to teach skills that underlie the development and maintenance of situation awareness, a competency shown to be critical in pilot decision-making performance. The modules targeted basic skills training for low-time pilots (checklist completion, air traffic control comprehension, psychomotor skills) as well as training on higher order cognitive skills (attention sharing, contingency planning) and intensive preflight planning. Overall, the training modules improved participants' performance on these targeted skills. Results also provided promising albeit limited support for the effect of the training modules in improving situation awareness.