How can military personnel use AR simulations for more effective training?

1 Benefits of AR training

AR training can provide military personnel with several advantages, such as enhancing situational awareness and decision making with real-time feedback and guidance. It can also reduce costs and risks by replacing expensive and dangerous live-fire exercises and equipment. Additionally, AR training can increase engagement and motivation by creating immersive and gamified scenarios, as well as improve retention and transfer of skills by allowing repetition and customization of training. Furthermore, it enables collaboration and communication by connecting remote teams and experts.

2 Types of AR training

AR training can be used for various purposes and contexts, such as marker-based AR which uses physical markers like QR codes or images to trigger the display of digital content on a device. Markerless AR does not require any markers, but rather uses sensors and algorithms to detect and track the environment and user's position. Projection-based AR uses projectors to cast digital images onto real surfaces, creating immersive and realistic environments. Lastly, wearable AR uses devices worn by the user to provide a seamless and hands-free experience, like night vision, sound effects, or haptic sensations. All of these types of AR can be used to provide information and instructions on objects or locations, create virtual environments that interact with the real world, create immersive scenarios, or enhance the user's vision, hearing, and tactile feedback.

3 Challenges of AR training

AR training is not without its challenges, such as technical issues with hardware and software, user issues with adapting to a new mode of learning, and ethical questions about simulating violence or trauma. Malfunctions or glitches can disrupt the training and affect performance, while cognitive overload, distraction, or discomfort can occur. The user must balance attention between the real and virtual elements and be mindful of potential psychological or emotional effects. Finally, appropriate support and debriefing should be provided to ensure ethical considerations are addressed.

4 Best practices and tips

To make the most of AR training, it is essential to define learning objectives and outcomes, choose the right type and level of AR, design the content and interaction, and test and refine the training. These steps will ensure that the AR training is relevant, meaningful, and provides feedback and guidance for the user. Additionally, collecting feedback and data on its usability, functionality, and effectiveness is important for making any necessary updates or improvements. By following these best practices and tips, military personnel can use AR simulations to gain more effective training and prepare for future challenges.

5 Here’s what else to consider

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