Transfer of training from simulation to reality

The goal of the study was to investigate whether transfer of training from driving simulators into the real world exists. Trainees, instructors and trainers remain sceptical of transfer of training from modern training tools, like driving simulators, into the real situation. Two experiments were conducted in which participants learned specific driving tasks in either a simulator or the real system. In the first experiment inexperienced drivers trained a kinematics’ task, in the second experiment experienced drivers learned a haptic and cognitive driving task. These experiments allowed a comparison to be made between the training effect experienced in a simulator compared to the real system. • The driving simulators used in the investigated experiments revealed a comparable training effectiveness between the real system and the simulator. Therefore, transfer of training exists in both simulators for the trained task. • Both investigated driving simulators have shown positive transfer of training. Interestingly both simulators also showed negative transfer due to the absence of a feedback element or because of the excessively strict performance measurement set by the driving simulator system. • The conclusions of the experiments show that exact task, user and organisation analysis’ have a high impact on the design of a training simulator and also therefore on the costs of such a system. Before an organisation implements a driving simulator in their education program, these analysis’ and also validation studies must be critically executed. Driving simulators are safe environments to train a whole range of different tasks. They are objective observers and are therefore able to give clear, precise and unbiased feedback to the trainees. Furthermore they are both economical and ecological and should therefore be used more frequently in the field of training, education and further education.