Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2026
DOI
10.3390/computers15020110
Publication Title
Computers
Volume
15
Issue
2
Pages
110
Abstract
Simulation-based training systems are increasingly deployed to prepare learners for complex, safety-critical, and dynamic work environments. While advances in computing have enabled immersive and data-rich simulations, many systems remain optimized for procedural accuracy and surface-level task performance rather than the macrocognitive processes that underpin adaptive expertise. Macrocognition encompasses higher-order cognitive processes that are essential for performance transfer beyond controlled training conditions. When these processes are insufficiently supported, training systems risk fostering brittle strategies and negative training effects. This paper introduces a macrocognitive design taxonomy for simulation-based training systems derived from a large-scale meta-analysis examining the transfer of macrocognitive skills from immersive simulations to real-world training environments. Drawing on evidence synthesized from 111 studies spanning healthcare, industrial safety, skilled trades, and defense contexts, the taxonomy links macrocognitive theory to human–computer interaction (HCI) design affordances, computational data traces, and feedback and adaptation mechanisms shown to support transfer. Grounded in joint cognitive systems theory and learning engineering practice, the taxonomy treats macrocognition as a designable and computable system concern informed by empirical transfer effects rather than as an abstract explanatory construct.
Rights
© 2026 by the author.
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) License.
Data Availability
Article states: "No new data were created or analyzed in this study. Data sharing is not applicable to this article."
Original Publication Citation
Johnson, J. M. (2026). A macrocognitive design taxonomy for simulation-based training systems: Bridging cognitive theory and human-computer interaction. Computers, 15(2), Article 110. https://doi.org/10.3390/computers15020110
Repository Citation
Johnson, J. M. (2026). A macrocognitive design taxonomy for simulation-based training systems: Bridging cognitive theory and human-computer interaction. Computers, 15(2), Article 110. https://doi.org/10.3390/computers15020110
Included in
Cognition and Perception Commons, Graphics and Human Computer Interfaces Commons, Systems Engineering Commons