Abstract:

This paper provides basic information about using a virtual environment to train decision-making processes in life-threatening situations. For the purpose of this research, specific model situations will be selected and designed by trained professionals from the police and the Czech army. These model situations in virtual reality aim to prepare and implement next-generation training for the needs of the Czech Army. This paper consists of two parts. The first part provides an overview of the current knowledge of virtual environment training in the police and military. In the second part, model situations for which the virtual environment is to be used are defined in detail, and the preliminary parameters of the research project are outlined.

This experiment aims to design specific model situations that will be usable in a virtual environment for educational purposes in the armed forces. Individual model situations will include stress stimuli and their immediate measurement by medical equipment. These selected situations will consist of life and health threats, which otherwise can’t be trained in real life, and will be based on the actual service experience of seasoned police and army members. The experiment will focus on the impact of stress on cognitive function and possible distortions in situational awareness and decision-making processes, i.e., speed and quality.

Keywords:

Virtual reality, model situations, threat, stress, combat, training, decision-making processes.