Accelerating the Development of Adaptive Performance: Validating the Think Like a Commander Training

摘要

The contemporary operational environment and the Global War on Terrorism require junior leaders in the U.S. Army to exhibit high levels of adaptive performance. This research examined whether or not the tactical environment of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) contributes to the development of more adaptive leaders. In addition, the level of adaptive thinking for lieutenants, captains, majors, and lieutenant colonels was investigated. The results revealed that leaders with OIF or OEF experience performed better on a test of adaptive thinking, and that performance increases with rank. The results support the validity of the adaptive thinking measurement instrument and the relevance of the Think Like a Commander training program. In addition, the results suggest that deliberate training methods may be more effective and efficient than live, virtual, or constructive experiential learning environments.