Computer-Based Graphics for Terrain Visualization Training

Abstract

This research is concerned with applications of computer graphic techniques to broaden a soldier's experience with a difficult map-reading task: terrain visualization. The graphic techniques allow a soldier to view a simplified contour map in the upper half of a computer display, place and rotate a cursor at any location on the map, and subsequently view on the bottom half of the screen the simulated three-dimensional terrain that correlates with the cursor's position and direction. Effects of two factors on terrain visualization performance were considered: individual differences in soldiers' spatial abilities (high, medium, or low) and type of training (active or passive). After computer-based training on how to read contour lines, half of the soldiers in each spatial group received active practice in terrain visualization; the other half received passive practice. Under active practice, soldiers were allowed to freely explore contour maps, selecting the terrain they wished to view. Under passive practice, selection of position and direction of the cursor was randomly determined by the computer. After practice, all soldiers were given a paper-and-pencil terrain visualization test. Results showed that performance increased as a function of spatial ability. Form of practice had no effect on performance for soldiers of low and medium spatial abilities. However, active as compared with passive practice doubled the performance scores for soldiers with high spatial ability. Implications of these results for the design and development of training systems are discussed.