Team Communication with and without Aids for Transmitting Remote Information

Abstract

The introduction of unmanned vehicles (UVs) and real-time electronic information presentation to military teams is intended to keep Soldiers safe and enable more effective performance. Two game-based experiments were conducted in which teams conducted a time-limited “Black Hawk Down” rescue mission with and without UV-provided information. When UV information was available, it was relayed between team members in face-to-face communication or remotely, with or without electronic maps, and with or without video images from the UV. Three types of analyses were performed. The communication content of the verbal protocol was analyzed and the use of information display technologies and employment of strategies was tabulated. The verbal protocol analyses revealed the push/pull of team communication and common confusions. Results of the technology use and strategy assessment form the basis for recommendations for display design and recommended practice for the use of such technologies in the field.