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Thomas Talbot

Welcome to the concept of fidelity in serious games, simulations, and other forms of interactive training technology. The appropriate use of fidelity has a critical impact on the utility and training effectiveness of a training simulation. When misused, inappropriate fidelity goals result in simulations that are too expensive, too awkward, and too distracting to use that are poorly received by trainees. Smart use of fidelity results in enjoyable, challenging and efficacious training experiences with a measurable impact and great repeat play value.

The popular impression that fidelity is a primary goal and indicative of quality training is challenged. Costs and benefits of fidelity are reviewed and the perils of excessive fidelity are explained with numerous graphical live-play examples. Real-world examples are taken from AI-based Virtual Human Avatars, Virtual Reality Simulations, Virtual Patients and Combat Simulations.

Examples will include alternatives to fidelity which use techniques such as Interactivity, Optimized Responsiveness, Abstraction and Bending Fidelity for learning purposes.

Attendee Benefits

The presentation’s examples will build familiarity with best fidelity practices and how they fit with technology-based training experience. For some, this tutorial will help participants become more astute consumers and evaluators of training simulations. For others, this tutorial will help participants who desire to create new training content as they navigate fidelity judgment calls critical to technology development and effective learning outcomes.

Specific benefits include: Why understanding fidelity is important? What are the perils of excessive fidelity? How can I match fidelity goals to learning? What are alternatives to high fidelity and why would I want to use them? What are the best fidelity practices for serious games?