Training and Human Science Research
Abstract
This Project focuses on research that improves Soldier-system performance in future force environments by looking at key phenomena underlying Soldier integration with intelligent technologies and autonomous agents. This Project researches optimal methods for information exchange between Soldiers and intelligent technologies including 1) human performance in automated, mixed-initiative (human control-machine control) environments; 2) visual scanning and target detection; 3) performance-related Soldier state changes; 4) integration across multiple sensory modalities; and 5) collaborative (team) and independent multi-task, multi-modal, multi-echelon Soldier-system performance - all cast against the influx of emerging intelligent technologies and autonomous systems. Technical solutions are being pursued in the areas of data generation and algorithm development in these emerging environments in order to update and improve our understanding of performance boundaries and requirements. These solutions include multi-disciplinary partnerships, metrics, simulation capabilities, and modeling tools for characterizing Soldier-system performance, and provide a shared conceptual and operational framework for militarily relevant research on critical aspects of human-agent teaming. In the area of translational neuroscience, research is carried out to examine leading edge methodologies and technologies to improve the measurement and classification of neural states and behavior in operationally-relevant environments; to examine the potential for application of neuroscience theories to autonomous systems to improve Soldier-system interactions; to model the relationship between brain structure and cognitive performance for understanding individual differences and injury; and to assess how neural pathways implicated in functional processing can be enhanced through dynamic system interface technologies for improving in-theatre performance and training. In the area of cybernetics, which is a scientific discipline that bridges the fields of control theory and communication theory for the study and modeling of behavior in complex systems, research is carried out to examine the complex human-system-environment relationships that define, constrain, and influence the interactions between Soldier and system. Research efforts are pursued to advance theory, models, and methodological approaches that capture the dynamic and multidimensional nature of human behavior, including the temporal dependencies inherent to human behavior, through an integrated program of research efforts focused on: novel cybernetic models of human multisensory integration and human-system communication; neuro-inspired, bio-inspired, and engineering approaches to computational algorithms for multisensory integration and multi-sensor fusion to enable enhanced and augmented Soldier perception in human-system interactions; new methodological approaches for the design of multisensory displays and human-system communications; and multisensory test bed platforms for examining experimental hypotheses driven by model predictions and proof-of-principle applications of identified algorithms and methods. This Project also investigates innovative theories, models, and methods to improve personnel assessment, training, and leader development, as well as provide a better understanding of individual, unit, and organizational behavior and performance within the context of complex organizational and operational environments. The research within these domains will enable advances in psychometrics to support the development of the next generation of psychological assessments for selection, classification, and assignment. The research also will target how to improve the assessment of difficult-to-measure skills and enable theoretical advances to inform and support the accelerated development of complex cognitive and social skills. This research lays the foundation for future applications that address the behavioral and organizational dynamics that impact Army flexibility, effectiveness, and resilience. The cited work is consistent with the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering priority focus areas, the Army Modernization Strategy, and the Army People Strategy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2023
- Source ID
- AA4_0601102A_1_2040_PB_2023
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