Students use the same procedures and simulated test equipment to diagnose failures in the training environment as they would for the actual equipment. Immersion is provided using liquid crystal shutter eyewear. In effect, the trainers provide a substitute for the actual equipment at a much reduced cost. A QuickTime VR rendition of the M1A2 turret interior is presented on an accompanying page. The trainers offer a complete course in trouble shooting, including the use of technical manuals, test equipment, and location and operation of equipment components.
Students proceed through each of the training modules at their own pace.
The trainers keep track of student progress through a series of graded written and practical tests. These trainers have proven to be very effective in practice. Reports from Guard staff at regional training centers indicate that students who have used the virtual trainers prior to coming to the regional training centers for initial or refresher training perform much better than students who did not. All rights reserved.