Assessment of web-based interactive game system methodology for dissemination and diffusion to improve firefighter safety and wellness

This paper describes research to assess the efficacy of web-based interactive game-like training in comparison to traditional classroom training for improving firefighters' knowledge, to advance the dissemination, diffusion, implementation and adoption of new information stemming from research interventions in fire-service. A web-based, interactive multimedia training tool called ALIVE (Advanced Learning in Integrated Visual Environments) was developed, that simulates the critical decision-making aspects of firefighting, and imparts knowledge and training though interactive game playing. Field experiments were conducted in three cities with career and volunteer firefighters to assess the efficacy of ALIVE and its adaptability for use in different fire-service related topics. Analyses of the results showed that knowledge transfer and retention using ALIVE was better compared to traditional classroom training in almost every case. Firefighters trained with ALIVE performed significantly better post-training and on a long-term retention test than those who were trained in a classroom. They also rated their own acquisition of knowledge higher than did those who had participated in the classroom training. These results hold true for the participant population as a whole, as well as with career and volunteer firefighters, and across participants of different levels of firefighting experience. These findings suggest that ALIVE training may be a particularly efficacious tool for use as part of firefighter training programs.