"As the Army transitions to modern digital technology it faces a major challenge in designing computer-implemented training to support the acquisition, retention, and transfer of skills required to operate these systems. This report describes principles of cognitive psychology and related training techniques that can be incorporated into the design of computer-implemented training. While modern computers and the Internet offer technically advanced capabilities, the training potential of these systems comes from their ability to vary instructional methods and media systematically according to the cognitive demands of the tasks to be trained. The research described in this report builds on previous ARI skill retention research accomplished with the Army's Inter- Vehicular Information System (IVIS), where it was noted that a number of cognitive psychology principles might be applied to modify training to enhance skill retention. The products of this research are a set of cognitive psychology principles and related training techniques summarized in tabular form, and an outline for a training program structure. Examples of prototype training materials demonstrating the implementation of the cognitive training techniques are provided."--Stinet.

"This report presents research on classroom training practices in Army Battle Command System courses. The investigation examined a sample of institutional courses using observation and classification techniques. Three learning theories--behaviorist, cognitive, and constructivist--guided the collection and analysis of data. Cognitive and behaviorist training techniques were observed somewhat more frequently than constructivist techniques. The frequency of training techniques depended on the type of course (operator vs. leader orientation), instructor style, and progression across days. The discussion offers potential improvements i the areas of training techniques, program of instruction, training environment, and instructional innovation. The report is intended for use by training designers and developers , digital trainers, and training managers working in institutional settings"--P. i.

"As the U.S. Army continues to develop more powerful and complex digital information systems, it is essential that both training needs and training opportunities are addressed to meet mission objectives. One way to address the training challenges of emerging digital systems is through the use of computer-based instruction (CBI), particularly because of the flexibility it offers in the way training can be delivered (e.g., embedded, distance learning, Internet). Another way is to improve learning by applying principles of cognitive psychology to the training design. This paper describes a research and development effort that incorporated a limited set of cognitive learning principles and techniques in the design of CBI for individual digital operator skills. To demonstrate the design features, four prototype training modules were developed for the Force XXI Battle Command Brigade and Below (FBCB2), the Army's vehicle-mounted digital system for distributing information to provide situational awareness. This paper describes how the selected instructional techniques and cognitive principles were used in distributed computer-based training. Pictures of screen layouts illustrate how the principles and techniques were instantiated in operator training for a digital system. Finally, this report provides a discussion of the lessons learned and issues for future research and development."--DTIC.