Computer aided instruction systems for plant operators

Abstract

Two types of CAI systems have been developed which make it possible to provide consistent education in plant operation for personnel from novice to expert levels and on to professionals like shift supervisors. The main features are summarized as follows. (1) Realization of an attractive feature, representing the fusion of education and amusement. A two layer structure was adopted, so operators can get systematic knowledge spontaneously, while enjoying the task. In the lower layer which is hidden from the operators, an education scenario was created to provide overall knowledge for the plant operators, such as system configurations and functions, and normal and emergency operation procedures. In the upper layer which is shown to operators, an attractive story with a game feeling was constructed corresponding to the education scenario. (2) Satisfaction of intrinsic motivation, representing instruction according to the learners' level. The student model is derived from a hierarchical function model which is a goal-oriented mental model of a plant operator. It is common to both the teaching course for presenting text knowledge of emergency procedures and the indicating course for actual plant behaviour and procedures using the plant simulator. The understanding level of each node (element of a function) in the model is evaluated by personal history conditions calculated from both the tutoring record of the node and the understanding level of the connecting nodes.