Part-Task Training of Tracking in Manual Control.

Abstract : Part-task trainers offer potential cost savings in flight training programs, in that relatively inexpensive devices might be used to train critical subskills prior to more comprehensive training in a simulator or in the criterion vehicle. Part-task methods are currently employed in many training programs with apparent success. However, there is no comprehensive statement of principles to guide users towards the best procedures or to help the maximize the effectiveness of procedures already being used. A review of the part-task training literature was undertaken to integrate the existing empirical data. The review was intended to identify the more promising principles and procedures for part-task training, and to provide a coherent guide to future research. Part-task training was defined as practice on some set of components of the whole task as a prelude to performance of the whole task. Part-task procedures are intended to improve learning efficiency and to reduce costs. Our review focused on the instruction of tracking skills for manual control. Transfer of training was emphasized and crucial features of the methodology and of means of assessing transfer were discussed. The part-task procedures of segmentation, fractionation and simplification were explained, and procedures for reintegrating parts into the whole task were summarized.