Effects of Combat Simulation on the Work-Related Motivation/Satisfaction of Participants
Abstract
To improve both the combat readiness of Army units and the psychological rewards derived from training, the Army Research Institute has developed a group of techniques for simulating battlefield conditions. These techniques are known collectively as Engagement Simulation (ES). The squad and platoon level application of ES is referred to a REALTRAIN. REALTRAIN can be distinguished from more conventional training along a number of dimensions, including the degree of operating constraints in the exercises, type of casualty assessment, nature of evaluative feedback, and sequence of training procedures. A paper-and-pencil instrument was constructed that measured six different dimensions of job-related motivation and satisfaction. Results indicated that along four of the motivation/satisfaction dimensions (Attitude Toward the Exercises, Military Work Role, Unit Cohesiveness, and Leader Improvement), responses were more positive following participation in REALTRAIN than before participation. In the remaining two dimensions, there was no change in the 'before' and 'after' measures of motivation/satisfaction. However, for the conventional exercises, there was no change in the before and after responses of participants along five of the dimensions. Along the remaining one, there was a decline in the satisfaction level in the conventional training.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA071084
Entities
People
- Paul R. Bleda
- Robert H. Sulzen
Organizations
- U.S. Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences