Distributed Training of Armor Officers

Using the Armor Officer Advanced Course (AOAC) as a case study, this report identifies alternative approaches for individual training and analyzes their cost implications. The study shows that 5 percent of the material in the AOAC is unrelated to job performance and could be considered for elimination from resident training. The study also finds that distributed training can provide some savings; however, its potential is limited because the amount of the distributable material is smaller than initial expectations-on the order of 25 percent, not the 40 to 60 percent called for in initial planning. Cost savings from distributed training depend on the mix of training media and technologies to conduct it (the higher tech the mix, the greater the start-up costs and the smaller the recurring savings) and on whether sufficient capacity exists to conduct it at soldiers' home stations. Ultimately, the study argues for a modest role for distributed training, involving in-place technologies such as paper, videotape, and personal computers, and only as much material as can be absorbed by soldiers and field units without interfering with daily operations and readiness.