Training a Joint and Expeditionary Mindset

Joint operations demand that soldiers must be interdependent on cultures of other services, governmental and non-governmental agencies, multi-national forces and populations of countries in which operations occur. This effort investigates the human dimension issues including cross cultural clashes, communication difficulties among coalition forces and with the enemy, morale and performance issues from repeated deployments among others. This research will develop a set of methodologies/tools to predict such stressors and assess training methods to address the specific human dimension issues associated with long-term operations with coalition forces. Feasible candidate computer-mediated training technologies and environments will be identified and assessed for applicability in the development of a Joint and Expeditionary Mindset (JEMs) training capability. These technologies will include the use of simulation, intelligent tutoring, educational games and exercises, and distributed training for individuals and teams. Sample training vignettes or exercises addressing the emerging challenges of an Expeditionary Army for personnel of varied ranks and backgrounds will be designed.