Evaluation of a Game-based Simulation During Distributed Exercises

Book excerpt: "Two exercises using a Game-Based Simulation (GBS) were conducted by the U.S. Army Research Development and Engineering Command, Simulation and Training Technology Center (RDECOM-STTC) and the United Kingdom Land Warfare Development Group. Soldiers from the U.S. Army and the U.K. military conducted coalition mission rehearsals during each exercise. Data were collected on the system user interface, on the effectiveness of unit and joint exercise sessions, and on After Action Review (AAR) functionality and applications. Several issues in technological capabilities limited and constrained the military tasks that could be performed during the exercises, and limited the AARs. Nevertheless, questionnaire data collected during each exercise indicated several positive aspects of using game-based simulations. The GBS system was considered capable of providing considerable scope for general dismounted Soldier rehearsal and training. The graphics and user interface were judged adequate for use in training rehearsals and AARs, especially in preparation for home station field training exercises. The largest negative issue was the limited number of weapon types and equipment. The second largest issue was the limited equipment functionality that the system supported. A third issue was the lack of sufficient numbers of civilians and opposing forces for different interactions in the non-kinetic exercises."--DTIC.