Project Summary Attachment
In the radiological response community, with the exception of a limited number of large-scale
exercises, there is a gap in technology that hinders hands-on survey training. Even when there
is an available exercise, the compressed time sequence prevents realistic practice for some
players, particularly field survey teams. The goal of this Phase I project is to initiate efforts to
narrow this gap by creating a prototype of a computer game-based framework, RadTeamSim -
Route, that in conjunction with common radiological dose modeling (used to create exercise
scenarios around the United States), provides members of survey team adequate opportunities
to improve their knowledge and make critical decisions in a dynamic, scientifically accurate
environment. The architecture of the RadTeamSim - Route will provide ample opportunities for
repeated practice that incorporates real time, personal, and unequivocal feedback – all
necessary ingredients for developing robust expertise. In turn, making such framework
available, will significantly increase the number of individuals able to access realistic training to
practice critical radiological field survey monitoring skills through a game-based training option
that does not currently exist for this audience.
The primary goal of this project is to create a new training platform by blending existing dose
modeling methods with gaming software. This new platform would support improved radiological
emergency response preparedness by creating realistic radiation incident scenarios to enable
responders to improve their field survey and health and safety awareness skills.
Phase I Objectives Include:
· Develop a prototype/proof of concept for a realistic field survey team training game with
inputs from radiological modeling software
· Validate the values in the simulation game against the modeling software outputs to
ensure proper survey data and location alignment between the data
· Survey the community for feedback on the usability of the simulation game as training
delivery and interest in future enhancements or other types of realistic game-based
training that would be ideal for radiological emergency response
Long Term/Future Phase Objectives Include:
· Expanding into additional critical training areas, such as field team sampling of water,
soil, and vegetation.
· Leveraging Virtual Reality platforms for all training options.
