The Computer Background of Soldiers in Infantry Courses: FY01
Abstract
The research examined soldiers' experiences with computers, self-perceptions of their computer skill, and their ability to identify frequently-used, Windows-based icons. The report documents the results of the third and last year of Infantry School course surveys. The soldiers surveyed represented the personnel structure of an Infantry rifle platoon. Computer ownership was high among all soldiers. Computer experience was gained in different ways, reflecting the circumstances where computers were available to and used by the groups surveyed. Lieutenants and senior noncommissioned officers had the most computer expertise as shown by their icon scores. However, the lieutenants had a higher perception of their computer skill. For junior noncommissioned officers and privates, the picture was more diverse. A substantial portion of these two groups had limited computer skills, as reflected in their icon scores and self-ratings. The results indicate that prior and special training on basic computer skills would be required for many of these younger soldiers before starting specialized training on a computer-based tactical system. Although only Infantrymen were surveyed, the results should apply to other soldiers throughout the Army with similar educational and military experience.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA399394
Entities
People
- Harnam Singh
- Jean L. Dyer
Organizations
- U.S. Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences