Abilities and Individual Differences in Complex Skill Acquisition

Abstract

A theoretically - driven, information processing based examination of ability - performance relations during the acquisition of a high - fidelity complex air traffic controller simulation task is described. Two laboratory experiments and one field experiment are reviewed that describe the results of extensive ability testing (including measures of general, reasoning, spatial, perceptual speed, and perceptual/psychomotor abilities) and individual differences in skill acquisition over protracted skill-learning sessions. Laboratory studies examine individual differences in the acquisition of skills on TRACON® - a Terminal Radar Approach Controller simulation. The field investigation examines acquisition of skills by FAA Air Traffic Controller Trainees. Results are reported from perspective of global/component abilities, and global/component criterion task performance measures. Results validate and further extend the Ackerman (1988) theory of the cognitive ability determinants of individual differences in skill acquisition. This research program demonstrates the benefits of ability component and task component levels of analysis over global analyses of ability - skill relations. Implications are discussed for developing refined selection instruments for the prediction of air traffic controller training success, and for other job tasks with demands for inconsistent information processing, as well as implications for design of tailored training procedures.