Guidelines and Tools for VBS2 Mission After Action Reviews: Development and Evaluation

• Main Authors: Topolski, Richard, Green, Chris, Leibrecht, Bruce, Rossi, Nicole
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• Subjects: ARMY PERSONNEL; ARMY TRAINING; COMPUTER AIDED INSTRUCTION; COMPUTER GAMES; Computer Programming and Software; GAME THEORY; LESSONS LEARNED; Military Forces and Organizations; MILITARY TACTICS; MISSIONS; PE622785; VIRTUAL REALITY

This report documents the creation and evaluation of a guide designed to assist facilitators who conduct after action reviews (AAR) of missions executed using the Virtual Battlespace-2 (VBS2) game. Observations of course-related exercises suggest there is a clear need for the guide. The results of the formative evaluation and an exploratory investigation indicate the guide meets the need. The guide is available as a stand-alone document in ARI Research Product 2011-09, After Action Review Guide for Trainers of Virtual Battlespace-2 Missions. It is also a valuable addition to the Soldiers' Toolbox for Developing Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures, ARI Research Product 2011-08, that resulted from earlier research. The results of the exploratory investigation strongly suggest that effectively employing VBS2 AAR capabilities is a key factor in engendering buy-in for simulation-based training among facilitators and Soldiers. The report includes lessons learned and recommendations for disseminating and utilizing the guide. The original document contains color images. Prepared in cooperation with Northrop Grumman Technical Services, Fort Knox, KY.