Poor Design and Management Hamper Army's Basic Skills Education Program

摘要

The Army has spent nearly $160 million since 1979 on its basic skills education program. The program has helped a small percentage of soldiers improve their basic skills-primarily reading and math skills. GAO found that the Army has not related basic skill objectives to job performance nor has it made sure that all installations consistently operate the program. Educators and others doubt that short-term remedial programs--like the Army's--can effectively counter deficiencies in basic skills. The Army has taken some actions to address the problems. GAO recommends several ways the Army can further improve its basic skills education program.