Learning Beyond the Buzzwords

<p>This monograph examines junior CSS soldier training programs against current learning theory in order to determine how the Army should structure its institutional and self-development programs to optimally develop Combat Service Support (CSS) soldiers to be adaptable tactically and technically competent and able to perform in any environment throughout today's battlefield. To accomplish this task this work employs classic problem analysis. First current and future requirements of a CSS soldier are identified by delving into concept papers future doctrine and current operations (specifically Operation Enduring Freedom or OEF and Operation Iraqi Freedom or OIF). The second step surveys psychological aspects of learning in order to identify criteria for developing programs to effectively train CSS soldiers. This section covers major current theories of learning (including behaviorism constructivism and other theories applicable to adult learning) and attempts to derive holistic guidelines from seemingly divergent sometimes narrow theories. The paper next investigates two potential training models the current institutional and self-development program for Unit Supply Specialists and a proposal developed by the Army Research Institute to train the future multi-skilled CSS soldier. The models are compared with the established learning criteria to determine strengths and weaknesses. The paper finds that current and proposed training models employ a behavioral emphasis that is suitable for training technical and tactical competence but is less appropriate for developing flexible adaptable junior leaders. The programs also strongly encourage self-development through distance learning but do not clearly articulate the purpose of self-development or ensure available training programs are effective means to achieve that purpose. To foster adaptability in its junior CSS soldiers the Army must embrace a culture that views life-long learning as essential (not j</p><p>This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore you will see the original copyright references library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world) and other notations in the work.</p><p>This work is in the public domain in the United States of America and possibly other nations. Within the United States you may freely copy and distribute this work as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.</p><p>As a reproduction of a historical artifact this work may contain missing or blurred pages poor pictures errant marks etc. Scholars believe and we concur that this work is important enough to be preserved reproduced and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.</p>