APTIMA INC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: N171-092

Description

Mixed Reality (MR) technologies can create realistic and engaging learning environments by merging real and computer-generated elements into a single space. However, the use of such technologies does not guarantee effective learning. In fact, the inappropriate selection or implementation of technologies can hinder learning (Appleman, 2005; Bransford, 2000). Unfortunately, there are no design support tools to assist military Instructional Systems Designers (ISDs) in choosing learning strategies that fully leverage the affordances and offset the limitations associated with different types of MR learning technologies. To address this critical gap, Aptima will develop the Automating Design Decisions for MIxed Reality Learning Environments (ADDMIRE) system, which will provide ISDs with practical design and implementation guidance that will (1) maximize their pedagogical value, (2) minimize the amount of extraneous cognitive load, and (3) suggest the most appropriate measures for assessing proficiency, learning, and transfer. As part of the ADDMIRE system, Subject Matter Expert (SME) experiential knowledge and insights will be collected and linked to best practices from the published literature. The result will be a robust and extensible framework for designing MR learning environments across a wide range of Naval jobs and job families.