Systems and methods for use in training observers and search and rescue personnel in detecting and identifying visual cues related to potential threats to aircraft and to ground based search and rescue circumstances. A visual display displays a scene generated by a visual scene generator apparatus. A vision limiting device is placed between the trainee and the visual display and the trainee can only see a limited amount of the visual display through a window on the vision limiting device. The limited view of the scene afforded the trainee will force the trainee to move around at various angles to see more of the scene as he normally would in real life.