Transfer from a simulation environment to a live robotic environment: Are certain demographics better?

The ability to remotely operate an unmanned vehicle while simultaneously looking for suspicious targets and then classifying those targets is not a trivial skill. This study looked at different training approaches to make better use of simulation as a first training step. When transferring to a live environment, the operators could be grouped into two categories according to whether they passed live training criteria or not. There were clear performance differences between these groups. The group that failed to pass criteria had poorer performance overall, more SA errors, and spent more time in training. Post-hoc analysis showed differences in the demographics between those who passed and those that did not. Male participants and younger participants were more likely to achieve criteria. There were no differences in gaming experience and perceived sense of direction.