In Support of a Comprehension Based Model of Dynamic Environments

To examine the validity of a comprehension-based model of dynamic environments, we conducted an experiment that measured pilot encoding of flight information during video simulations of flight procedures and pilot situation awareness. Ten instrument-rated pilots provided verbal protocols while viewing various flight simulations. In addition, while the simulations were in progress, pilots answered questions about the current flight situation either immediately after a pause in the simulation or after a filled delay. A protocol analysis revealed that pilots utilize conversions of instrument values, schemas, and strategies to build and maintain situation awareness. Response accuracies in the delay vs. no delay condition did not differ significantly, however response latency was greater in the delay condition. Collectively these results support a comprehension-based model of dynamic environments. In addition, our findings suggest that pilot training can be improved by having pilots interpret instrument values to achieve a specific goal.

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