Evaluation of a Social Media Simulation for Decision-Making in the Training of Intelligence Analysts

Abstract

The rapid evolvement of technology has given rise to new threats such as the spread of misinformation and disinformation on social media. Therefore, it is vital intelligence analysts have high quality training that teaches them effective decision-making when faced with these potential threats. Wargames and interactive simulations have been found beneficial in training and education. However, there is little research specifically assessing social media simulations, and how they can be beneficial for the training of intelligence analysts. Using Naturalistic Decision-Making as a guiding theoretical framework, this study examined the decision-making processes of users during a wargame that utilised a social media simulation. Hence, providing insight into how the social media simulation tool can be used to train intelligence analysts to make effective decisions when faced with potential threat. The present study was exploratory and utilised qualitative data extracted from semi-structured focus groups from 21 participants who either worked or researched areas of interest to intelligence analysts. Results revealed that participants decision-making was largely influenced by the rapidity in which they could receive the information and their prior experience, thus demonstrating support for the intuitive style of decision-making. The practical implications of the present study are discussed and recommendations for future research within the area are outlined. Keywords: Wargames, Social Media Simulations, Intelligence Analysts, Decision Making