Tools to Measure and Improve Team Cognition During Live Training
Abstract
Current military performance measures used during training events are effective at gauging how well military teams are preparing for the tactical and technical demands of the operational environment. However, those measures often fail to capture the more nuanced aspects of team performance that can help trainers better understand how well teams are developing in order to best meet the tactical and cognitive demands of the operational environment. Thus, this research set out to devise two tools to help trainers assess and provide developmental feedback to teams regarding the teams 1) Shared Mental Models, 2) Shared Situation Awareness and 3) Collective Critical Thinking. Though these constructs are typically studied as individual psychological phenomena, a theoretical contribution of this research was the integration of these constructs within a model of teams interactive cognitive performance. The tools were developed with guidance and input from Observer Coaches/Trainers at multiple locations. The first tool, the Team Cognition-Quick Reference Guide (TC-QRG) specifies behavioral cues trainers can use to gauge and record a teams performance across the focal constructs during training execution. The Team Cognition Assessment (TCA) is a behaviorally anchored rating scale wherein trainers enter their assessments of teams collective cognitive performance based on the information recorded in the TC-QRG during training execution. Next, the TCA generates statements to supplement trainer feedback in hotwashes and after-action reviews. The TC-QRG and TCA were well received by trainers who indicated the tools could enhance their ability to generate judgments and provide feedback regarding teams collective cognitive performance. Presentation given to the International Military Testing Association conference, Raleigh, NC March 7-11, 2022.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 07, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1170371
Entities
People
- Christopher L. Vowels
- Tyler Freeman