Research

An Integrated Research Approach

The Centre for Advanced Training Systems (ATS) has a strong research focus, which is applied to all aspects of our activities.

Our research approach is integrated into all phases of project development, from initial project conception through to resource delivery.

Within each project we collect data and integrate the following research aspects:

Training Tool Development

Training Tool Development

We integrate evidence-based and scientifically-established concepts to address unmet needs, which consider individual training outcomes, trainer objectives and organisational requirements.

Specific Aspects:

  • User attitudes & concerns
  • Existing resources
  • Technology options & features
  • Organisation capacity & resources

User Testing & Feedback

User Testing & Feedback

We take an active approach to gather data from users throughout the development process and to assess the final training tool.

Specific Aspects:

  • User experience
  • Tool optimisation
  • Training efficacy & functionality

Dissemination & Implementation

Dissemination & Implementation

We work with organisations to ensure that the new training tool is accessed by users to deliver outcomes.

Specific Aspects:

  • Hardware acquisition & logistics
  • Dissemination strategy
  • Supporting documentation & content
  • User analytics & uptake

Further, we conduct scientific research studies to improve and optimise teaching and learning within The University of Newcastle and our partner organisations.

Our focus is on addressing specific questions, to improve our understanding of how people learn and interact with technology. We directly test and compare different training delivery systems to identify the benefits and disadvantages of each modality. As experts in physiological stress, we also investigate the physiological effects of technology on the body during teaching and learning (e.g. heart rate, respiratory rate and physiological arousal).

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Examples of Current & Ongoing Research

 

  • Evaluation of an App-Delivered Psychological Flexibility Skill Training Intervention for Medical Student Burnout and Well-being.
  • Comparing approaches for the selection and deployment of extended reality teaching applications.
  • Effectiveness of respiratory control training using a biofeedback-enabled, virtual reality training module. How many sessions are required to reach competency? How long are skills retained?
  • What is the benefit of an immersive learning environment for controlled breathing training? Comparison of skills acquisition of controlled breathing using an immersive VR environment and a 2D screen-based approach.
  • Can procedural training in VR reduce the number of iterations required for procedural training in the real world?
  • How stressful is virtual reality? Correlating immersion, fidelity, performance and threat in mixed-reality applications with physiological responses.
  • Should XR-based technologies be integrated into tertiary education? How? Moving past early adopter enthusiasm: General attitudes and concerns towards mixed-reality technology as a teaching tool within the University system.
  • How can XR-based technologies be integrated and supported at an institutional level? Scaling mixed-reality technology as a sustainable and supported teaching tool across multiple teaching courses and classes.
Current & Ongoing Research

Example Publications

 

If you are interested in developing a specific training programme in collaboration with the Centre for Advanced Training Systems (ATS), we would like to hear from you. Please send us an email or access the Contact Us page to get in touch with our team.

Designing, Developing and Implementing Next Generation Training

Centre for Advanced Training Systems

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Centre for Advanced Training Systems

Funding: The Centre for Advanced Training Systems (ATS) is based at The University of Newcastle. ATS activities are made possible through project-specific funding, as outlined in the Projects pages.