Adaptability of training in simulated process control: knowledge- versus rule-based guidance under task changes and...

Area of Science:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Cognitive Psychology
• Process Control Engineering

Background:

• Traditional training paradigms often favor either system-based or procedure-based approaches.
• Conflicting literature suggests system-based training offers flexibility, yet stress may impair knowledge-based strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the adaptability of system-based versus procedure-based process control training under varying task complexity and environmental stress.
• To determine the optimal training strategy for complex, safety-critical systems.

Main Methods:

• Two groups received 6-hour training on the Cabin Air Management System (CAMS): one focused on system knowledge, the other on procedures.
• Participants performed the CAMS task for 3 hours, encountering familiar/unfamiliar faults and 1 hour of auditory noise stress.

Main Results:

• System-trained operators outperformed procedure-trained operators on primary control tasks, particularly with complex and unfamiliar faults.
• Procedure-trained operators showed superior performance on secondary tasks requiring executive control and were less affected by noise stress.

Conclusions:

• System training is more effective for unexpected events, while procedural training is advantageous under noise-induced stress.
• Training for safety-critical applications must integrate both procedural and system knowledge, emphasizing strategic deployment under stress.