Bridging the skill gap using vocational training simulators: Validating skill assessment metrics

Skill development continues to remain a daunting task, especially in developing countries, owing to the numerous challenges posed by resource constraints such as unavailability of certified expert trainers and lack of tools to measure and quantify human motor skill learning. Attempts are being made to address these problems by introducing technology enhanced learning systems. The APTAH haptic simulator is one such solution that addresses the need for guided instruction, constant monitoring and support in vocational skill training. Each training session using APTAH generates data that needs to be verified for its reliability in revealing relevant information that can support measurements on the trainee's actual learning and progress. The paper presents the experiments performed on simulator generated data, in order to examine the existence and strength of fundamental dependencies among the skill parameters involved. The regression methods used in the analysis demonstrate that the device is capable in capturing many vital relationships that exist between the skill parameters such that it can later be used in enhancing skill learning of the trainee.