Training Critical Thinking for the Battlefield Volume I: Basis in Cognitive Theory and Research

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing the reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden to Washington Distribution authorized to U.S. Government Agencies only; report contains proprietary data produced under SBIR Contract No. DASW01-97-C-0038. Other requests shall be referred to the performing organization in Block 7 of this form. The three volumes of this report describe research findings on three closely related fronts: (1) Development of a theory of the cognitive skills that individuals need to make effective decisions in fast-paced and uncertain environments; (2) development and testing of methods for training critical thinking skills on the battlefield; and (3) development of an advanced system architecture to support adaptive instruction and feedback in critical thinking training. Theory development focused on mental models and critical thinking about mental models in a team context, where initiative might be necessary. Training addressed mental models and critical thinking on three major themes: purpose, time, and maneuver. The training was utilized and successfully tested in an advanced tactics course at the Command and General Staff College. Finally, algorithms were developed to simulate both rapid recognitional responding and more reflective reasoning when time is available.