Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Simulation for M4 Marksmanship Training

Simulation is widely used within the Australian Army and other defence forces for marksmanship training. However, there is a lack of data that quantifies the training effectiveness of these devices, and informs the appropriate mix of live-fire and simulation. This report documents a study which measured the effect of additional simulator training on a basic live-fire qualification task with the M4 weapon. The study was conducted with thirtysix Australian Defence Force personnel enrolled in an Army training course. Following initial marksmanship training, one group (n=18) completed additional simulator training while the other group (n=18) proceeded straight to live-fire qualification. The group that received additional training in the simulator achieved slightly faster live-fire qualification; however trainees in both groups required numerous attempts to pass. The findings show that the simulator training had a small, positive benefit, but that the overall training was not particularly satisfactory. The report outlines reasons for these findings and provides recommendations for future studies that could explore more effective training methodologies. Approved for public release RELEASE LIMITATION