It is no surprise that a "newbie" on the job typically does not posses the knowledge that it takes to perform at a high level. This presents major problems to individuals such as those preparing to execute highly detailed mission objectives and those attempting to operate fighter jets. When you add in the possibility of having to accomplish these tasks in an extremely hostile environment filled with people aiming to kill you, you have a recipe for disaster. Throwing a trainee into an environment such as this would most certainly end in failure, or worse. Luckily, there are virtual training methods in the military that are tailored to specific dangerous jobs.
In the Air Force, fighter pilots use specialized flight simulators to develop and refine all aspects of operating this advanced type of machinery. These simulators create an environment that is nearly identical to that of a real fighter jet. The virtual setting consists of a cockpit as the centerpiece of the room. Inside the cockpit, the locations of all the buttons and gauges are consistent with reality. This cockpit even rests on a hydraulic lift that is responsible for moving the "e-aircraft" in response to the actions made by the pilot. Also, a series of screens are situated around the cockpit in a 360-degree fashion. These screens display a seemingly real-life display, complete with virtual enemies on the ground and in the air. The flight simulation software is programmed to reenact emergency situations as well as intense battle scenarios.
Most branches of the military also require soldiers-in-training to use battlefield simulators. These simulators are highly advanced, displaying a realistic combat zone on the screen of high-tech virtual reality glasses. The environment portrayed to the soldier is programmed to change in response to the movements and decisions made by the individual. Soldiers even use "e-weapons" that mimic the size, feel, and performance of actual weaponry. These simulators are designed in an attempt to replicate the emotions of fear felt during battle as well as the need for precision in spite of these emotions. In fact, the army is actually introducing new simulators that, in a non-life threatening manner, inflict pain on soldiers who are virtually injured. This is currently accomplished by using tactical devices, air jets and air cannons.
Sources:
http://www.vrs.org.uk/virtual-reality-military/index.html
http://www.vrs.org.uk/virtual-reality-military/air-force.html#flight-simulators
http://www.vrs.org.uk/virtual-reality-military/combat-simulation.html
http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2011/11/virtual-explosions/
This is really cool. When I think of military training I think about them having to spend the night outside in extreme conditions, being woke up in the middle of the night, and strenuous physical activity. I never really thought about how they trained to fly a fighter jet in an intense environment. This makes perfect sense!
ReplyDeleteHeather Roberson
I find this technology amazing! It still amazes me how far we have advanced in the world of technology. I was curious to how often these training methods are used? I believe I seen a similar technology in a movie where a pilot for a space shuttle was practicing for a future flight.
ReplyDeleteE-training would be great for the military. It is very useful for simulating situations that may not be feasible to practice. I found the battlefield simulators very interesting. It may not be possible to practice warfare in real life, but is is possible electronicly.
ReplyDeleteI found using the air jets and air cannons very interesting. Do they use this with only the battlefield soldiers or do they use this with the airforce as well to get the pilots ready for that? Also, do they have a simulator that teaches a pilot what to expect if they had to eject or is that just through real life training? Very interesting blog post.
ReplyDeleteI think this is the coolest thing. Our technology is now so advanced that our military can get real life training and can actually feel like they are in combat. eLearning can be used in so many ways and I feel that it is now expanding everywhere.
ReplyDeleteAlthough there are some drawbacks with e-training the benefits far outwait them. Being a certified trainer in my company I use e-training on daily bases and it makes my job a lot easier. I see improvements in performance of my workers especially with the new employees. It helps the new employees get an understanding of the job before actually doing the job.
ReplyDeleteAlthough these e-learning and e-training are clearly a benefit to these men before entering the real work experience, I believe that nothing will truly prepare them for what the real life situations are like. I am totally for these e-training systems as a way to prep these people before the real life situations, as I see them as a great way to train them as best as they can with this also being a cost effective method of training. (jcapatin@uncc.edu)
ReplyDeleteI have served in the U.S. Army as an 11B Infantryman and I have been deployed to Afghanistan. Having been in several firefights and being wounded I can say that these simulators never replicate battlefield conditions or the situations one encounters. The e-weapons never handle like actual weapons do and the costs of these simulators are tremendously high. I can see the need for flight simulators and I am sure they are absolutely necessary and truly effective considering the price of aircraft. I just believe that for regular infantry, simulators serve almost no purpose unless they are roll-over simulators for vehicle operations. Nothing can prepare a soldier better than actual physical training, actual use of weapons, and running through battle drills that prepare a soldier to handle unique situations. Though technology has its place in the military, there are times where traditional training takes priority.
ReplyDeleteKyle White