Interfacing simulations with training content

Abstract

Recent years have seen huge increases both in computing power and the number of people able to access computers and the Internet. This proliferation of information and communication technologies has enabled higher quality learning to be made available through increasingly sophisticated modes of presentation. Traditional or conventional training programs use a variety of instructional development strategies to support a student’s need to master a variety of competencies. Simulations and games are increasingly being deployed as powerful and valuable extensions to these traditional educational initiatives. However, learning is a comprehensive process which does not simply consist of the transmission and learning of content. While simulations offer the opportunity to undergo informative interactive experiences, they do not, by themselves, constitute training or instruction. Assessment, student tracking and feedback are important elements in the teaching and learning process. Recognizing the importance of these requirements, two IEEE standards committees have formed a collaborative study group to investigate the potential of formalizing a standard set of technical specifications to allow simulations and/or games to be launched and managed through SCORM-conformant content and Learning Management Systems. This paper and presentation will focus on discussions, both technical and pedagogical; to address the many issues associated with developing such SCORM-Simulation Interface standards. Discussions will focus on the different use cases for simulations and the key interface points between simulation content and LMS environments such as delivering simulation content to the learner, monitoring key interactions and performance within simulation content and determining what the student should next experience within the continuum of training.