The Computer Background of Infantrymen: FY99.
Abstract
The research determined the experience soldiers had with computers, their perceptions of their own skill, and their ability to identify icons representative of those in the proposed Land Warrior software. A survey was given to soldiers and leaders representing the rank and experience structure of an Infantry rifle platoon, as well as to Infantry platoons. The platoon leaders, the lieutenants who are recent college graduates, had the most computer expertise and were the most homogeneous on the indicators of computer skill in the survey. For the remaining platoon members, the picture was more diverse for both noncommissioned officers and squad members. Although a substantial portion of these groups had computer skills, a substantial portion had very limited skills. If training were to begin today on a digital system used by the rifle platoon, the results indicate that prior and special training on basic computer skills would be required for many of these soldiers. Although the focus was on the rifle platoon, the results should be typical of other soldiers throughout the Army of similar ages and ranks. The research will continue in FYOO and FYOl to determine changes in computer expertise in the groups studied.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA372716
Entities
People
- Geoffrey H. Martin
- Joan L. Dyer
Organizations
- U.S. Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences