PNNL-SA-40851 Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation, and Education Conference (I/ITSEC) 2003 A Cognitive Approach To e-Learning Frank L. Greitzer, Douglas M. Rice, Sharon L. Eaton, Sarah R. Robertson Michael C. Perkins, Ryan T. Scott, John R. Burnette US Army PEO Enterprise Information Systems Pacific Northwest National Laboratory 1 CAISI Program Office Richland, WA 99352 Ft. Belvoir, VA 22060 frank.greitzer@pnl.gov sarah.robertson@us.army.mil ABSTRACT Like traditional classroom instruction, distributed learning derives from passive training paradigms. Just as student- centered classroom teaching methods have been applied over several decades of classroom instruction, interactive approaches have been encouraged for distributed learning. While implementation of multimedia-based training features may appear to produce active learning, sophisticated use of multimedia features alone does not necessarily enhance learning. This paper describes the application of cognitive science principles to enhance learning in a student- centered, distributed learning environment. The basis of the application of cognitive principles is the innovative use of multimedia technology to implement interaction elements that support scenario-based training. These simple multimedia interactions are used to support new concepts and later combined with other interaction elements to create more complex, integrated practical exercises. This technology-based approach may be applied in a variety of training and education contexts, but is especially well suited for training of equipment operators and maintainers. Based on classroom training material developed by the US Army for operation and maintenance of wireless logistics communications equipment, the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory designed and developed an interactive, student-centered distributed-learning application for Combat Service Support Automated Information Systems Interface (CAISI) operators and maintainers. This web-based training system is also distributed on CD media for use on individual computers, and material developed for the computer-based course can be used in the classroom. In addition to its primary role in sustainment training, this distributed learning course can complement or replace portions of the classroom instruction, thus supporting a blended learning solution. ABOUT THE AUTHORS Frank L. Greitzer has a BS in mathematics and a PhD in mathematical psychology with a concentration on human learning and memory. A chief scientist at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Dr. Greitzer has managed R&D programs in training and advanced distributed learning applications developed for the Department of Energy, the Federal Aviation Administration, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and the US Army. Dr. Greitzer’s interests in the area of training focus on applying cognitive principles and advanced technology to develop innovative, interactive, student-centered education and training. Douglas M. Rice, Sharon L. Eaton, Michael C. Perkins, Ryan T. Scott, and John R. Burnette are members of the multidisciplinary team at PNNL that developed the CAISI e-Learning application. Mr. Rice served as technical lead for system design and development; Ms. Eaton was the technical editor and instructional designer; Mr. Perkins was the graphic designer/developer; Mr. Scott supported multimedia development and integration; and Mr. Burnette served as an in-house subject-matter expert. Sarah R. Robertson has a BS in Business Administration and leads the CAISI training development team effort for the US Army CAISI Project Office and serves as the Contracting Officer/Technical Representative for the CAISI e- Learning development project being conducted for the US Army by PNNL. 1 Pacific Northwest National Laboratory is operated for the US Department of Energy by Battelle Memorial Institute.