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 SAMEPAGE promotes shared understanding (SU) in Command & Control Teams so they can gain a decisive edge in executing synchronized team tasks, and can be used to enhance team SU in a variety of exercise formats and training venues. The system provides initial instruction, team SU skill training, practice scenarios, evaluation scenarios, and takeaway products. For the Army Research Institute, we developed a theoretical model of the cognitive processes underlying shared understanding (SU) and identified 9 high-payoff training techniques. We then developed a collaborative environment for promoting, training and assessing this SU. The SAMEPAGE environment consists of a scenario framework and HTML application (HTA) software that presents state-of-the-art SU training techniques; user friendly interface, captivating graphics, video and audio; a rich training supporting environment (scenario orientation, facilitator training, on-line help, lesson guides, scenario-generation guidelines); and integrated team process and performance measurement capabilities. The project was nominated for an SBIR Quality Award.
Initial Instruction. After team members are introduced, formal instruction commences with a discussion of the SAMEPAGE, computer-based delivery system and the role of the instructor/facilitator. Trainees are then shown a brief video clip on the importance of SU. The next two segments consume the bulk of initial instruction. The "Meta-content" segment is derived from our Basic/Dynamic Model of Shared Understanding, where seven critical dimensions of team SU have been distinguished Yet to achieve SU more deliberately and proactively, team members will then learn about six techniques that are expected to accelerate SU acquisition along the seven critical dimensions.
Team SU Skill Training. Team members receive hands-on practice with six SU techniques. Through a "simulated" OPORD and team member role packets, trainees first learn about a situation/mission, that provides the context for skill training. Teams engage in skill training as they assume team lead, intelligence, maneuvers, logistics, and civilian analysis roles. Under the guidance of an instructor/facilitator, they proceed through an organized flow of exercises that is intended to achieve SU about the situation, mission, and targeted dimensions of the team itself.
Practice Scenarios. SAMEPAGE training now ascends to a full-blown, simulated mission scenario in which teams receive an OPORD, team member role packets, and other supporting mission materials (e.g., maps, diagrams, photos, messages, etc) throughout the scenario. The exact team type and roles will change somewhat from the Team SU Skill Training Phase. Team members are led through a structured, mission pre-brief in order quickly to synchronize SU about the situation, mission, and team-all of which are intended to position them for team/mission success.
Evaluation Scenarios. Prototype instructional systems like SAMEPAGE require careful evaluation to ensure that instructional objectives are met, and to determine whether expected team behaviors actually occur as a result of training procedures. This phase of the project will compare a group of trainees that receive SAMEPAGE instruction to an appropriately designed control condition, to draw meaningful conclusions about the effectiveness and efficiency of training. Both groups will be exposed to a highly scripted mission scenario comprised of two 10-minutes vignettes. Characteristics of this scenario will resemble those of the training scenario, and there will be assigned roles and tasks to accomplish.
Takeaway Products. These products are tangible outputs of the SAMEPAGE system that trainees can take with them at the conclusion of training. Their use is intended to promote the direct, explicit transfer of SU to mission, field, or other training environments. These products may include checklists, job aids, scorecards, diagnostic reports, etc. that prompt or make SU more likely in these contexts.
The SAMEPAGE training system is expected to have many positive applications throughout the training and career life cycles of today's soldiers. It is currently being applied to facilitate coordination among government, military and non-government organizations in Western Africa.
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View Model of Team Shared Understanding
and SAMEPAGE Instructional Processes and Effects
View Example Screen Display from SAMEPAGE
Send
an email to Project Director Alan Spiker
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