The Computer Backgrounds of Soldiers in Army Units: FY01
Abstract
A multi-year research effort was instituted in FY99 to examine soldiers' experiences with computers, self- perceptions of their computer skill, and their ability to identify frequently used, Windows-based icons. This report documents the results of the second and last year of surveys from soldiers in Forces Command units. The soldiers surveyed were from mechanized and non-mechanized infantry companies, the battalion staff, and battalion slice elements (Medics, Combat Engineers, and Field Artillery). The officers and senior non-commissioned officers had the most computer expertise as measured by their icon scores. For Junior non-commissioned officers, specialists, and privates, the picture was more diverse. Almost half of these soldiers had limited computer skills, as measured by both subjective and objective indices. Frequency of using a variety of computer features on a regular basis related highly to computer expertise. When specialists and corporals were examined separately, opportunity to use computers as part of their duty position was also related to computer expertise. The results indicate that young soldiers with limited computer skills would benefit from basic computer training prior to learning specialized training on the Army's new digital systems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA409024
Entities
People
- Harnam Singh
- Jean L. Dyer
Organizations
- U.S. Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences