The utility of the pretraining of task-relevant cognitive skills within the context of experimental research methodology was investigated in this study. A criterion referenced pretraining multi-media product was developed and applied to support the initial phase of an experimental research effort in which several instructional methods for training pilots in an aircraft simulator were investigated. The objectives of the pretraining materials phase of the study were: (1) to provide a standardized, replicable method of orientation of subjects across three experimental groups, (2) to permit the training and assessment of prerequisite entry behaviors which were relevant to the tasks taught in the simulator, and (3) to enhance experimental control for the study. Instructional materials were developed and validated following instructional systems development (ISD) procedures. The materials consisted of a modified programmed text, review questions, a video taped briefing/demonstration, and a criterion test. Materials were validated using two sample groups from the target population of undergraduate pilot training (UPT) casual students. The multi-media pretraining package was applied during the initial or orientation phase of the instructional strategies study. Criterion test scores of the experimental groups receiving pretraining exceeded acceptance criteria for the specified prerequisite skills as called for in the instructional product validation. Achievement scores on the criterion test for the experimental groups closely replicated those of the validation group (non-significant differences in mean scores). (Author/RC)