Aircrew Training and Assessment is designed for professionals in the aviation psychology, human factors, assessment and evaluation, vocational, technical, educational psychology, and educational technology communities. It explores the state of the art in the training and assessment of aircrews and includes a review and description of the use

In nap-of-the-earth (NOE) flight a helicopter moves at less than treetop height and at variable airspeeds, using natural features for concealment--a dangerous procedure requiring great skill in flying and in navigation. This report identifies specific areas in which NOE training might be improved. Information from agencies and operational units provided data for analysis of NOE mission requirements, aircrew task analyses, and performance requirements for emergencies. Training objectives derived from the analyses were verified, compared with existing NOE training programs, and used to suggest improvements. Problems in navigation and orientation are the major hazard in NOE flight and training improvements should concentrate in these areas. Suggestions for ground-based training aids are visual (cinematic) simulation, a map-interpretation manual for NOE use, and techniques of ground-level orienteering. Suggestions for flight-based training are procedures such as more practice in re-orientation, equipment such as map displays, and policies such as flying over more varied terrain. Results of the analyses were validated by ARI's field research program and used as the basis for developing the experimental Map Interpretation Terrain Analysis Course (MITAC) now being evaluated at the Army Aviation School, Fort Rucker, Alabama.

Simulations have been a fixture of aviation training for many years. Advances in simulator technology now enable modern flight simulation to mimic very closely the look and feel of real world flight operations. In spite of this, responsible researchers, trainers, and simulation developers should look beyond mere simulator fidelity to produce meaningful training outcomes. Optimal simulation training development can unquestionably benefit from knowledge and understanding of past, present, and future research in this topic area. As a result, this volume of key writings is invaluable as a reference, to help guide exploration of critical research in the field. By providing a mix of classic articles that stand the test of time, and recent writings that illuminate current issues, this volume informs a broad range of topics relevant to simulation training in aviation.