The Systems Engineering Experience Accelerator (SEEA) research project was initiated to validate the use of technology to create an experiential, emotional state in the learner coupled with reflective learning. This could effectively compress time and significantly accelerate the learning process of a systems engineer (SE) compared to the way it occurs naturally on the job. The project is testing the feasibility of a simulated approach for accelerating systems engineering competency development in the learner. The SEEA helps learners learn from mistakes in an environment in which they can face challenges and make errors in a safe environment without any long term negative work-related outcomes. Learners must also receive clear and actionable feedback as the basis for reflection, subsequent skill practice and behavior change. Therefore, performance assessment and feedback are important aspects of the overall learning process. In this experience, learners assume the role of a lead program systems engineer for development of a new unmanned aerial system. They must make an appropriate set of decisions and trade-offs at key points during the development lifecycle to keep the program on track. They must recover from problems in a number of areas, including system requirements, schedule, quality, cost and customer expectations. The acquisition program is represented in the simulation engine as a set of system dynamics simulation models that include such activities as sub-system development, system integration and system test. Baseline year accomplishments include: defined project goals and success metrics, identified critical competencies and maturation points, created appropriate learning experiences, defined an open architecture, selected technologies, and developed and demonstrated a prototype.
