For my semester case analysis project, I analyzed several
aspects of human factors-related UAS mishaps with an intent to make a
recommendation for increased practical training for new sUAS operators in the
U.S. I used data from several case studies to highlight the need for training
in Aeronautical Decision Making, as well as case studies conducted to test the
effectiveness of scenario-based training. Researching case studies and
performing a case analysis greatly increased the effectiveness of my project,
as I was able to find real-world applications and results of prior efforts.
In my current career as an educator and trainer of new UAS
pilots, Case Analysis as a tool is an effective tool for decision making. From
a high-level view (program-wide), case analysis of training techniques aids in
creating performance standards. Quality assurance is a growing emphasis in
higher education, and analyzing training methods can improve the quality and
efficiency of training programs.
In my previous career, my employer was seeking to improve
the pass rate of their UAS training course that prepared pilots for deployments
in support of government-owned, contractor-operated contracts. The training
course and performance standards were regulated by the U.S. Army, and civilians
were hired to fill the positions. A case analysis was performed to determine
performance in training based on prior career experiences, in order to improve
the hiring process and reduce the failing rate of students through the course.
The case analysis was successful, and background and experience requirements
led to much more qualified new hires.
One recommendation I would make for a case analysis
emphasis would be to ensure discussion board posts replies are source-driven.
For example, require each response to include 1-2 references to support the
argument for or against. This encourages a deeper response and provides
additional experience in case analysis research.
Reference:
Carnegie Mellon University. (2015). Case studies. Retrieved from https://www.cmu.edu/teaching/ designteach/teach/instructionalstrategies/casestudies.html
