On the Importance of Adaptive Operator Training in Human-Swarm Interaction

Human-swarm interaction (HSI) as a research discipline can be seen as a combination of swarm robotics and human factors engineering. In this work, we combine perspectives from cognitive systems engineering and systems science to discuss the importance of operator training in HSI and how training of swarm dynamics may be implemented. The concept of neglect benevolence, i.e. temporal sensitivity in swarm control, is described as a case example for operator training in HSI. We propose the application of adaptive instructional systems to (1) optimize mission performance, (2) increase understanding of swarm dynamics and (3) allocate mental workload to different work demands over a variety of complexities. Future empirical investigations must show the utility of the proposed concepts.