Reena Master

Use of Computer Based Training for Aircraft Inspectors: Findings and Recommendations

Research in aircraft inspection and maintenance has revealed the criticality of human inspection performance in improving aviation safety. Training has been identified as the primary intervention strategy in improving the quality and reliability of aircraft inspection performance. If training is to be successful, it is clear that we need to provide aircraft inspectors with tools to help enhance their inspection skills and improve performance. In response to this need, the Clemson research team developed a high fidelity inspection-training simulator (ASSIST: Automated System of Self Instruction for Specialized Training) - a specialized inspection software focused on improving aircraft inspection performance. Following the development a detailed usability evaluation was conducted and is reported as a part of this paper.

A Preliminary Study of the Measurement of Trust in a Hybrid Inspection System

Since human trust in automation can directly impact inspection quality and overall inspection performance, it is critical to study the issue of trust in hybrid inspection systems. After developing a trust questionnaire for hybrid inspection systems, we conducted a preliminary study to measure humans trust in the hybrid inspection systems using the questionnaire developed. Two hybrid inspection systems were used in the study. Results showed that the trust questionnaire was sensitive to different systems. A stepwise regression procedure selected competency and reliability as the better predictors.

The Use of a High Fidelity Simulator to Improve Aircraft Inspection Performance: The ASSIST Program

The aircraft maintenance industry is a complex system consisting of several interrelated human and machine components. The linchpin of this system, however, is the human. Recognizing this, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has pursued human factors related research. In the maintenance arena the research has focused on the aircraft inspection process and the aircraft inspector. Training has been identified as the primary intervention strategy to improve the quality and reliability of aircraft inspection. In response to this need, the paper outlines the development of a high fidelity inspection training simulator (ASSIST: Automated System of Self Instruction for Specialized Training) focused on improving aircraft inspection performance and ultimately aviation safety. The research was funded by the Federal Aviation Administration and conducted by the Advanced Training Systems Laboratory of the Department of Industrial Engineering, Clemson University and was conducted in cooperation with Delta Airlines and Lockheed Martin Aircraft Center.

Preparing the Aircraft Maintenance Technician for Tomorrow: Assessment of the New AMT Curriculum

The aviation maintenance technician (AMT) is a critical component in ensuring the safety and reliability of the aircraft maintenance operations. Hence it is critical that students AMTs receive proper education and training that will prepare them for work in the hangar floor. Realizing this, a newly integrated curriculum for student AMTs was developed. This paper outlines the methodology that was used to assess the revised AMT curriculum that integrates alternative learning methodologies, and previous FAA sponsored human factors research into a coherent whole. The paper describes the assessment methodology, which was used to test how the curriculum helps meet educational objectives and student performance objectives.