After Action Reviews: Current Observations and Recommendations

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to examine the conduct of After Action Reviews (AARs) at the Combat Training Centers (CTCs). The CTC selected was the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) where the likelihood of small unit leader involvement in decision-making situations has increased, bringing a heightened importance to lower level AARs. In cooperation with the JRTC Operations Group, researchers examined both platoon and company AARs. The results confirm earlier research that shows the AAR is both a science and an art. Even the best-trained Observer/Controllers (O/Cs) tend to err on the side of providing too much information. Facilitating a discussion rather than a lecture is a skill that must be developed and reinforced in training and in practice. Recommendations are included, as well as a prototype AAR rating scale that could be used as a job aid, performance checklist, or as an instructional tool during O/C training.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 2007
Accession Number
ADA463410

Entities

People

  • Gerald E. Klein
  • Margaret S. Salter

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Artillery
  • Behavioral Sciences
  • Computers
  • Doctrine
  • Education
  • Group Dynamics
  • Instructions
  • Lessons Learned
  • Military Training
  • Observation
  • Observers
  • Personnel Management
  • Social Sciences
  • Students
  • Training
  • Training Devices
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Instructional Design and Training Evaluation.
  • Military Training and Readiness Simulation
  • Strategic Security Studies