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The Performance and Learning Models
Research Program
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Challenge:
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Much of the
long-range planning for warfighter training technologies is built on the
premise that an increasing emphasis on modeling and simulation will result
in training improvements and cost savings. As our experience with these
technologies has matured, it has become apparent that there remain a
variety of scientific and technical challenges that must be addressed
before maximum realization of these benefits will be achieved. One of these
challenges is improving on the relatively poor state of human behavior
representation in military simulations. The Department of Defense has
acknowledged this challenge by including “Authoritative representations of
human behavior” as Objective 4 of its Modeling and Simulation Master Plan.
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Vision and Approach:
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In response to these
challenges, the 711 HPW/RHA Warfighter Readiness Research Division has
established the Performance and Learning Models (PALM) research program at
the Mesa Research Site, for conducting basic and applied research in human
behavior representation. The vision motivating creation of this research
program is a revolution in training – more effective and more efficient
training leading to a higher level of readiness, made possible through
basic and applied cognitive science. We intend to achieve that vision through
a dual-emphasis approach involving empirical research and computational
process modeling.
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Benefits:
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There are a number
of benefits resulting from this approach. The empirical research produces
data that are critical for theory development and for assessing the
predictive validity of the models. Computational process modeling requires
explicit implementation of theory and allows for precise predictions of
human behavior. Computational process models also are generative, meaning
they can produce behavior in novel situations, and they transition well to
applied research areas (e.g., computer-generated forces, intelligent
tutoring systems). Computational process modeling is the most rigorous
means available for testing our ability to describe and predict warfighter
behavior, and it plays a central role in all research conducted by the PALM
team.
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Current Research:
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The PALM team has
active research efforts underway in the following areas (we encourage you
to click on the links for a description of each research area):
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For additional
information please contact
Email: palminfo@mesa.afmc.af.mil
DSN: 474-6561
Commercial: (480) 988-6561
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