Optimizing Leadership Performance Through Context Awareness and Simulation Based Training in Network Centric Operations

The objective of this proposal is twofold: a) to develop preliminary methodologies to define and assess specific leadership performance and skills requirements that can be adapted for different warfighting and homeland defense missions that support current and evolving national and international requirements and b) design an innovative training method for development and delivery of dynamic leadership skills training in a range of multi-media environments. The joint training transformation initiative includes the exploitation of computer mediated learning environments for "just-in-time, any place-any where" with realistic representations of the human dimension of warfare. A particular emphasis is on the acquisition of leadership skills in tactical and operational environments inclusive of the continuum of military missions. The optimization and enhancement of human performance through just-in-time training is challenged by many factors: access to live mission rehearsal, individual background and experience, current practical knowledge of cultural and societal factors in the mission area of operation and lack of access to most recent "lessons learned". However, today's technology should make it possible to offer training through a variety of media that is reconfigurable for specific learning scenarios and will provide rapid acquisition of knowledge for a specific mission or job assignment.