Design Interactive, Inc. — Department of Defense STTR Phase I: AF17A-T009

Description

Training can now delivered on a large scale through platforms, but must be engaging to be effectively utilized. Key to providing training that makes a difference in the field is an understanding of how to induce high levels or engagement during learning, and the ability to objectively assess engagement in real-time so that interventions can be tailored during training to optimize engagement and maximize learning. Previously self-reported metrics or expensive EEG-based measures are not appropriate for large scale platforms. Design Interactive Inc. (DI) with support from Florida Institute of Technology (FIT) proposes development of the Noninvasive Gauge to Assess and Utilize Goal-oriented Engagement (N-GAUGE), a measurement system which integrates non-invasive physiological monitoring with subjective self-report to directly measure engagement in classroom, simulation, and live training sessions. N-GAUGE is capable of monitoring, assessing and tracking learner engagement across learning situations and contexts, and provides real-time and after action feedback for how to adjust training to optimize engagement.