The Effect of Functional Display Information on the Acquisition and Transfer of Novice Piloting Knowledge

Carl Smith

Advisor: Deborah Boehm- Davis

David J. King Hall, 2073
April 10, 2008, 08:00 PM to 07:00 PM

Abstract:

Prior studies using an aviation display with functional properties have shown improvements in performance and knowledge, suggesting that functional interface design may be used to improve flight training. To improve training, however, the knowledge and performance benefits observed with a functional display must generalize to a standard flight display. This study evaluates whether the knowledge and performance benefits observed with a functional aviation display (Oz) can transfer to a conventional Cessna display. Thirty-two novices were trained in one of four display conditions (Oz-Oz/Oz-Conv/Conv-Oz/Conv-Conv). Results indicate that novices initially trained on the Oz display showed improved knowledge and performance compared to novices trained on a conventional display. Novices who trained on the Oz display and then transferred to a conventional display showed decreased knowledge and performance compared to novices using the Oz display only, but displayed improved knowledge and flight performance compared to novices who trained only on a conventional display. Implications for the use of functional displays in flight training are discussed.