Peak Performance Trainer (PPT™): Interactive neuro-educational technology to increase the pace and efficiency of rifle marksmanship training

Abstract

Marksmanship training involves a combination of classroom instructional learning and field practice involving the instantiation of a well-defined set of sensory, motor and cognitive skills. Current training procedures rely heavily on conventional classroom instruction often with qualitative assessment based on observation (i.e. coaching). We have developed a novel device called the Peak Performance Trainer (PPT™) which can accelerate the progression from novice-to-expert based on automated inferences from neurophysiological measurements. Our previous work has revealed specific EEG correlates to stages of skill acquisition in simple learning and memory tasks. We have incorporated this knowledge as well as an array of other physiological metrics to develop a field-deployable training technology with continuous physiological monitoring in combination with simultaneous measures of performance, workload, engagement and distraction, accuracy, speed and efficiency. This paper outlines the features of the PPT and the preliminary results of its use in marksmanship training. © 2009 Springer.