Training a Joint and Expeditionary Mindset

Intelligent Decision Systems, Inc. (IDSI) proposes to perform a front-end analysis to define a computer-mediated training support package that will help ground-component forces develop the cognitive and affective skills to meet the challenges of being part of a Joint and expeditionary force. These skills are critical for effective performance in such areas as Combat Arms, Combat Support, Combat Service Support, and Reserve and National Guard components. IDSI intends to team with Forterra Systems, utilizing their expertise in massive multiplayer online gaming (MMOG) and other computer-mediated training tools. This analysis effort will identify the components of the constructs associated with a Joint and Expeditionary Mindset and related human dimension and performance issues. It will also identify the skills and attitudes needed to attain maximum interoperability, adaptability, and survivability in a Joint operational environment; relevant gaps in current Joint skills training; and metrics to measure skill acquisition. The analysis will include an investigation of computer-mediated training methods and environments, to include distributed training, simulation, and MMOG. The data will be analyzed and synthesized to produce the framework and foundational materials for Phase II development of a learner-centric, immersive training environment to enhance learners' development of a Joint and Expeditionary Mindset.