(Maximum 200 words):Specific goals of the present research were to 1) report lessons learned from instructors in a distributed blended learning environment; 2) report student reactions to this type of learning environment; and 3) compare the training approaches with those reported for traditional classroom environments. Both the dL instructors and students acknowledged substantial value in the blended approach (video teletraining with computer software) for training digital skills remotely. The students offered some good suggestions for improving the training in distributed environments such as having hands-on training with tactical equipment and additional training aids (acronym list, commander's guide, train-the-trainer materials, etc.). Overall, the findings indicate that the dL instructors were able to adapt to using the technology to teach FBCB2 operations, resulting in training that is very comparable to the traditional courses. The positive student comments and similar training approaches and topical coverage support these findings. Additionally, major advantages and disadvantages of the dL method of instruction are noted. Several specific recommendations for dL instructors were made in the areas of (a) leveraging student strengths, (b) emphasizing problem-centered instruction, and (c) leveraging training aids. The findings contribute to the Army's efforts to enhance blended learning solutions to meet critical training needs. SUBJECT TERMS

This report, in two volumes, describes the operational demonstration and assessment of an innovative toolkit resulting from a research program aimed at enhancing self-development of junior leaders in the Army. The toolkit contains online diagnostic and training tools that build self-awareness, metacognitive abilities, critical thinking skills, and interpersonal skills. Soldiers in units and user juries provided feedback on the tools. The pressures of the operational environment seriously limited the time available to work with the tools. The user satisfaction results indicated the toolkit provides a reasonable mix of capabilities, but completeness remains an open question. The tools appear to be especially suitable for use in pre-commissioning and military education programs. They offer moderately favorable acceptability, learning effectiveness, and value. However, the online learning methods may need modification to accommodate the importance Army leaders place on interpersonal interaction with mentors and peers. The findings, lessons learned, and recommendations can help decision makers, program architects, training developers, and research investigators advance the state of the art for leadership development programs. Volume II, ARI Research Note 2009-09, presents the report's appendices.

(Maximum 200 words):Specific goals of the present research were to 1) report lessons learned from instructors in a distributed blended learning environment; 2) report student reactions to this type of learning environment; and 3) compare the training approaches with those reported for traditional classroom environments. Both the dL instructors and students acknowledged substantial value in the blended approach (video teletraining with computer software) for training digital skills remotely. The students offered some good suggestions for improving the training in distributed environments such as having hands-on training with tactical equipment and additional training aids (acronym list, commander's guide, train-the-trainer materials, etc.). Overall, the findings indicate that the dL instructors were able to adapt to using the technology to teach FBCB2 operations, resulting in training that is very comparable to the traditional courses. The positive student comments and similar training approaches and topical coverage support these findings. Additionally, major advantages and disadvantages of the dL method of instruction are noted. Several specific recommendations for dL instructors were made in the areas of (a) leveraging student strengths, (b) emphasizing problem-centered instruction, and (c) leveraging training aids. The findings contribute to the Army's efforts to enhance blended learning solutions to meet critical training needs. SUBJECT TERMS

Public reporting burden for the 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 and 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 Headquarters Services, Directorate for Information Operations and Reports, 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1204, Arlington VA 22202-4302. Respondents should be aware that notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person shall be subject to a penalty for failing to comply with a collection of information if it does not display a currently valid OMB control number.

This report, in two volumes, describes the operational demonstration of an innovative toolkit designed to enhance self-development of junior leaders in the Army. The toolkit contains online diagnostic and training tools that build self-awareness, metacognitive abilities, critical thinking skills, and interpersonal skills. Volume I presents the body of the report including introduction to the demonstration, description of the toolkit, methods, findings and discussion, lessons learned, and conclusions and recommendations along with the references. This Volume II contains the appendices to the report. Presented are the planning documents that guided the development and execution of the research (Detailed Test Plan, Implementation Support Plan, and Student Guide) and examples of the manual data collection instruments. These appendices contribute to the understanding of this research effort as well as the findings, lessons learned and recommendations presented in Volume I, Technical Report 1252. Further, the appendices provide valuable insights for researchers in future inquiries.