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AY21 ILS (AFMS)
Virtual/Augmented Reality and Related Technologies: Practical Applications for Learning in the National Security Enterprise
Immersive Learning Environments (ILEs), including virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR), and augmented reality (AR), have become a staple in military training. The advances in technology have allowed the Air Force to improve training opportunities for Air Force personnel to hone their skills in more realistic and authentic training environments. The skills Airmen require to accomplish the Air Force mission can be practiced, repeated, and developed more effectively than ever before using ILEs. The use of AR/VR/MR is a powerful tool that can enhance the technical or “hard skills’ of our Airmen, the most valuable asset of the Air Force. The rapid improvement of virtual, augmented, and mixed reality has dramatically changed how the Air Force trains Airmen in their specific technical skill sets. Some examples are pilot training, air operations training, security forces training, battlefield training, vehicle training, and medical training to name a few.
Air University has initiated a Research Task Force (RTF) elective allowing AWC and ACSC students to learn, collaborate, and research the use of AR/VR/MR technology within their specific career fields and have the opportunity to publish their research as part of this initiative by Air University to broaden the depth and knowledge of AR/VR/MR technology within the Air Force. The course curriculum includes extensive hands-on use of VR & AR devices, combined with student research, expert presentation, and guided discussion as means to establish a strong foundational understanding of the technologies. Additionally, students will get to interact with the Air Force Agency for Modeling and Simulation (AFAMS) supporting AFAMS research efforts and a TDY to Orlando to attend The Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference (I/ITSEC); the world's largest modeling, simulation and training event and potentially have their research paper published in the following year's I/ITSEC Conference.
