Effect of Train-Driving Simulator Practice in the European Rail Traffic Management System: An Experimental Study

Olsson, Niklas; Lidestam, Björn; Thorslund, Birgitta · 2023 · Crossref

DOI: 10.1177/03611981221135802

archive: archived pipeline: cataloged verified

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Summary

This study investigates the efficacy of using a physically low-fidelity but functionally high-fidelity train-driving simulator for training drivers in the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS). The transition to ERTMS requires significant changes in driver tasks, including a shift from lineside to in-cab information retrieval and new operational rules. Because many drivers must be retrained quickly and real-world practice rarely exposes drivers to critical "special cases" (rare but regulated events), the authors sought to determine if simulator-based training could effectively prepare drivers for these scenarios compared to traditional real-train practice. The researchers employed an experimental design involving 16 train drivers from a Swedish train operation company, divided into two groups of eight. One group practiced exclusively in a simulator, while the control group practiced on real trains using standard methods. Both groups received identical theoretical instruction. The simulator group benefited from the ability to repeatedly practice specific special cases, whereas the control group’s exposure to such events was uncontrolled and limited by real-world conditions. Performance was assessed via a simulator test measuring objective driving errors and instructor evaluations on a 10-point scale. Participants also completed questionnaires regarding practice repetitions, experience, and self-estimated confidence. Results indicated that the simulator group significantly outperformed the control group. The simulator group committed 38% fewer driving errors (mean of 12.63 vs. 20.50) and received significantly higher instructor scores (mean of 5.97 vs. 3.93). Specifically, the simulator group made significantly fewer skill-based errors. Analysis revealed that the simulator group experienced significantly more repetitions of special cases, both through direct practice and by observing colleagues, compared to the control group. For instance, the simulator group practiced "trip" scenarios an average of 3.38 times (including observation) versus 0.50 for the control group. The study also found that drivers’ self-estimated confidence did not correlate with actual performance, supporting the theory that novices in new systems often overestimate their abilities. The findings suggest that low-fidelity simulators are highly effective for ERTMS training, particularly for practicing rare special cases that are difficult to provoke in real operations. The ability to repeat scenarios allows for more robust skill acquisition than real-world training, which is often constrained by operational realities. The authors conclude that such simulators are well-suited for research, practicing special cases, and assessing driver skills, offering a safe and efficient alternative to real-train practice for mastering complex new systems.

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Topics

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• simulator training transfer
• simulator validity fidelity
• learner drivers

Information type

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• Applied Guidance: countermeasure evaluation
• Methodological Resource: validation psychometrics, tool software