An experimental comparison on the effectiveness of various levels of simulator fidelity on ab initio pilot training

Abstract

Verbatim from Semantic Scholar. Not paraphrased, not summarized.

Abstract Despite recent advances in technology use for education and training, the approach to pilot training over the past several decades has largely remained unchanged. Student pilots complete their training in actual aircraft, with very few flight hours conducted in flight training devices. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of various levels of simulator fidelity on ab initio pilot training. Thirty student pilots were invited to train using a virtual reality simulator, desktop simulator, or flight training device. Performance was evaluated using a modified Transport Canada Flight Test Guide alongside the NASA Task Load Index, Subjective Stress Scale, and Simulator Sickness Questionnaire, giving insight into mental workload, stress, and experience of simulator sickness, respectively. Findings show potential for virtual reality and desktop simulators regarding training procedural tasks; however, trainees must be aware of the limitations virtual reality and desktop simulators have concerning the training of aircraft handling tasks. PRACTITIONER SUMMARY Despite technological advances, pilot training, including simulators, have remained unchanged for decades. This study used a between-subjects experimental comparison to investigate the impact of simulator fidelity on ab initio pilot training. Findings show virtual reality and desktop simulator’s potential for training procedural tasks but highlight limitations regarding aircraft handling tasks.

Authors

• Naomi Paul
• Bradley Moncion
• Shi Cao

Keywords

• Medicine
• Engineering