Use of Technology-Enhanced Simulations for Cyber Aptitude Assessment: Phase II Prototype Development
Abstract
Work in cyber occupations can be quite demanding and necessitates individuals with certain aptitudes and traits to work competently. Selecting individuals to place into cyber occupations is the first step that needs to be undertaken. But what are the requisite aptitudes and traits of focus for the selection of these individuals and how should the assessment of those aptitudes and traits occur? The first chapter of our report describes a survey of individuals in cyber AFSCs to identify the order of those most important for successful work. Based on the survey, three aptitudes and three traits were determined to be the focus of subsequent selection assessment. The aptitudes are active learning, deductive reasoning, and systems thinking; with analytical thinking, adaptability, and situational awareness being the traits of interest. The second chapter describes a serious game developed to assess these six aptitudes and traits in candidates. A timeline, game flow, measures, help system, and system variables are described. Chapter three provides evidence for the construct validity of the measures in terms of factor analytic and item response theory (IRT) data. The fourth chapter provides a perspective of the game from a usability assessment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 21, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1107016
Entities
People
- Brenton N. Wiernik
- Jaclyn Martin
- Michael D. Coovert