Evaluating the Effectiveness of Game-Based Training: A Controlled Study with Dismounted Infantry Teams
Abstract
Computer games are increasingly being used by armed forces to supplement traditional methods of military training, despite a lack of empirical evidence on their training effectiveness. This report describes a study conducted by DSTO scientists that examined the effectiveness of a desktop computer game to train small teams of dismounted soldiers in infantry attack tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs). Two infantry sections took part in the study and were allocated to either game-based or field-based methods of training section attack procedures. One infantry section received traditional field-based instruction in section attack procedures, and the other section took part in game-based training using Virtual Battlespace 2. The performance of both sections was measured before, during, and after training. While the performance of the field-based training section improved significantly from pre-training to post-training, the game-based training section showed no significant changes in performance. Overall, the findings suggest that the current method of field-based training is effective, and that game-based training is not effective for training novice teams of infantry personnel in section attack procedures. This result contrasts with several previous studies which found game-based training to be effective. The implications for the Australian Army of using desktop computer games for individual and team training are discussed, and recommendations for future research into game-based training are outlined.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA585731
Entities
People
- Ashley Stephens
- Philip Temby
- Susannah J. Whitney
Organizations
- Defence Science and Technology Group