Between-Subject Variability in Transfer-of-Training of Skill-Based Manual Control Behavior

This paper describes a new approach for analyzing training effectiveness in transfer-of-training experiments, by considering the between-subject variability of post-transfer changes in task performance and control activity of individual trained pilots. First, exponential learning curve models were fit on experimental data of individual pilots. Second, curve parameters were used to analyze the immediate changes in task performance and control gain following transfer, and the correlation between immediate changes in task performance and continued learning rate after transfer. Data from two experiments with different experimental designs were compared using the new approach. The method revealed similar post-transfer effects in the immediate changes in task performance and control gain following transfer between the two experiments when pilots trained without motion. However, differences in post-transfer effects were found when comparing the correlations between the immediate change in task performance and learning rate. In addition, differences were found between participant groups training with different levels of flight simulator motion fidelity.