Enhancing the Effectiveness of Ad Hoc Units: A Revised Training Model
Abstract
To meet the personnel shortfalls resulting from the Global War on Terror, the United States Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command developed an integrated approach to strength management - use of the ad hoc unit. This came at a cost however, generally in terms of lost efficiency and decreased capabilities to conduct tactical and operational Civil Affairs Operations. This thesis encapsulates fifteen months studying eight United States Army Civil Affairs units who deployed to Iraq as part of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM, Rotation 06 - 08. The research objective was to determine if the units were effective and what, if any, changes are needed to improve the training program prior to deployment. Analysis revealed cyclical patterns in teams' task progress, in their attention to outsiders and their mission, and in members' interpersonal work relations. Although different teams handled these issues differently, and moved through the cycles at different speeds, they showed striking convergence in the way they alternated between periods of continuity and periods of change. The research indicates there is a better method for preparing ad hoc units for deployment. By creating a collaborative approach to task management and linking social, cultural, and task cohesion, the Army can more effectively execute pre-deployment training plans for ad hoc units.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA501635
Entities
People
- Glenn J. Woodson
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School