Part-Task vs. Whole-Task Training on a Supervisory Control Task

The primary aim of training is to improve performance. Part-task training may be the more economical method, because full mission training simulators often cost more than the vehicles they simulate. However, the skills learned may not transfer effectively to performance of the complete task. This study investigated the effectiveness of Part-task training on the psychomotor portion of a supervisory control simulation. Twelve subjects were divided into Part-task and Whole-task groups and told to perform the task as quickly as possible. Part-task training was provided with the cursor-control device (a magnetic pen and pad), prior to transition to the Whole-task. Some distinct advantages of the Part-task training were: (1) The Part-task group learned the task faster; (2) The Part-task group's scores and task times continued to improve, while the Whole-task group's did not; and (3) A significant increase in speed of response for the Part-task group and almost no improvement in speed for the Whole-task group.