Use of Visualization and Contextualization in Training Operators of Complex Systems

The complexity of control systems in complex dynamic systems can lead to increased cognitive demands on the operator. Lacking accurate and complete system knowledge and/or interfaces that clearly present the system state and constraints, the operator may misunderstand the automation and its behaviors. This paper presents a research effort that uses visualization and contextualization in training as tools for addressing these problems. A problematic feature of modern glass cockpit aircraft's automated systems, vertical path navigation (VNAV), is used as a testbed. The VNAV Tutor uses contextualization and visualization to improve the pilot's understanding of VNAV control and the interaction of various levels of automation during VNAV usage. Furthermore, it attempts to help pilots build a robust conceptual model of vertical navigation operation. An evaluation showed that the VNAV Tutor enhanced both the conceptual understanding and use of the vertical navigation function by pilots.