Abstract
Researchers took a user-centered approach to evaluate pilots’ preferences and perceptions of training with an innovative VR-based immersive training device (ITD). Over the course of one week, usability and user experience data were gathered from U.S. Air Force instructor pilots (IPs), unqualified instructor pilots (UIs),and student pilots (SP). Coming from various squadrons, these pilots provided feedback regarding their interactions with the ITDs. A think-aloud protocol, observations, and surveys were used to capture participants’ perceptions of the different hardware variants using the following usability metrics: fit and feel, function, and sustained and future use. At this stage of the development, various configurations of the ITDs were evaluated to determine which technological components should be included in the final design. The data presented here focused on one of those components, the aircraft control or center stick. The results for the stick component will be discussed as a use case as it illustrates the user-centered approach and data analysis strategy that captured and identified noteworthy differences in perceived training value.
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