Innovative Approaches to Integrated Training of Complex Systems: Lessons Learned from Crew and Ground Controller Robotics Training

Paper number

IAC-06-D1.5.05

Author

Ms. Lindsay Evans, Canadian Space Agency, Canada

Year

2006

Abstract

There is a multitude of systems on board the International Space Station (ISS) on which crew and ground support personnel must be trained and remain proficient. Training personnel on the use of the Mobile Servicing System (MSS), a highly sophisticated robotic system and Canada’s contribution to the ISS, is the responsibility of the Canadian Space Agency (CSA).  The experience of developing and delivering MSS training programs for crew and ground controllers has provided the CSA training department with invaluable lessons learned for integrated systems training.   Applying these lessons learned to the next phase of ISS robotics training development and delivery as well as other space systems training is crucial to ensure lasting competencies, and is essential for the success of future long-duration missions to the moon, mars and beyond.

The CSA trains a diverse group of students, including astronauts, cosmonauts and ground controllers, on the operation and system behavior of the MSS.  This is an international group of learners, each with different operational needs, cultural backgrounds and language requirements.  This paper will address how the MSS training program has used innovative instructional methods, media, and assessment techniques to customize training to meet the needs of such a multi-cultural and diverse group of students. 

Training time is limited due to the availability of students; therefore training teams are faced with sub-optimal timeframes to adequately train the operation of their particular system.  This paper will detail lessons learned with respect to maximizing learning when available training time is limited, and will address the unique challenges of maintaining proficiency over long durations.   

There has been an important departure from task-based shuttle robotics training to more skilled-based training for ISS robotics.  This paper will examine the lessons learned associated with developing training when specific tasks are often not identifiable prior to launch and planned operations are constantly changing.   

As experience is gained with on orbit operations of the MSS and new operational practices are adopted, there is a need for the MSS training program to evolve.  As a result, significant content upgrades are required in an effort to accommodate an entirely new philosophy on troubleshooting failures, the implementation of new system functionality to support ground-controlled operations and new requirements to have the robotics support operator located on the ground, rather than on orbit.  This paper will address lessons learned relating to managing course evolution to ensure that the curriculum remains relevant.

Abstract document

IAC-06-D1.5.05.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-06-D1.5.05.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.