Special Operations Forces Language and Culture Needs Assessment: Cultural Awarenes and Knowledge Training
Abstract
This study is one component of the Special Operations Forces (SOF) Language and Culture Needs Assessment Project. The larger study consisted of 23 focus groups conducted across the SOF community and an issue-oriented web-based survey. This report documents the current state of culture training in the SOF community from the perspectives of SOF operators and leaders. SOF operators described participating in a variety of culture training experiences. Essentially, there does not appear to be consistency in the type of culture training received. For example, some operators and leaders described formal training events (e.g., immersion experiences, classroom training) whereas others described informal training events (e.g., on-the-job experience). Additionally, the format (e.g., varying training lengths) and perceived effectiveness of culture training also varied. SOF operators and leaders provided suggestions for culture training, including culture training length, when it should occur, and how its importance should be promoted in the community.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA634168
Entities
People
- Dana Grambow
- Eric A. Surface
- Kathryn Nelson
- Lauren Brandt
- Natalie Wright
- Reanna Poncheri Harman
- Sarah Bienkowski
- Stephen A. Ward