Reliance on Simulation in Initial Entry Rifle Marksmanship Training and Future Directions for Simulation
Abstract
This report summarizes the impact on marksmanship performance in Initial Entry Training when the reliance on simulation increased and live-fire decreased. Two Infantry One Station Unit Training platoons received increased simulation training via a drill based-program called Test-D. The Test-D platoons had five days of simulation training and two live-fire periods (zeroing and practice record fire). Two Baseline platoons executed the current marksmanship training, which had four live-fire periods (including zeroing and practice record fire), two days of Engagement Simulation Training, and a day of dry-fire. The comparison was conducted during training with iron sights. On the two criterion measures, the percentage of Soldiers who zeroed on their initial attempt and the score on the first practice record fire, the Baseline platoons performed significantly higher than the Test-D platoons. Primary explanations for the Test-D findings were the grouping target in the simulation, inconsistent application of the drills, lack of formal systematic monitoring of Soldier performance, and Soldiers lack of confidence in weapon handling and shooting skills with their personal weapon. Recommendations are made for improving the training features and increasing the accuracy requirements in future marksmanship simulations in order to substantially impact the skill level of novice firers.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1037317
Entities
People
- Blake Ledford
- Jean L. Dyer
- John Ii T. Miller
- Louis C. Miller
- Victor C. Ingurgio
Organizations
- U.S. Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences