Toward an Integration of Training Theory and Technique

Abstract

Reviewers of the training literature have generally concluded that training theory and practice are not well integrated, and that research findings are not often translated into useful training methods. In an effort to bridge the gap between training theory and practice, an organizing framework for conceptualizing training research is presented. The purpose of the framework is to highlight the linkages between training-related theory and technique in the areas of training analysis, design, and evaluation. The linkages are described in detail, and illustrated via consideration of research into mental models. We hope that the framework will lead to future research programs that enhance the transition of training research from theory into practice, and integrate more fully these two perspectives

A Methodology for Enhancing Crew Resource Management Training

“…We suggest that there is still difficulty infiltrating operational communities with the results of team performance and training efforts. This problem is certainly not limited to CRM training; we have maintained that the application of research results to practice is a problem confronted by many areas of applied psychology (Cannon-Bowers, Tannenbaum, Salas, & Converse, 1991;Salas, CannonBowers, & Blickensderfer, 1997).…”

Factors That Influence Training Effectiveness: A Conceptual Model And Longitudinal Analysis

“…In addition, there is a need to apply relevant theories to guide the generation of hypotheses about training system design, and to provide a basis upon which to make design decisions (Cannon-Bowers, Tannenbaum, Salas, & Converse, 1991).…”

“…In particular, there have been a number of studies that have shown that training motivation is related to trainee reactions (e.g., Mathieu et al, 1992;Tannenbaum et al, 1991), learning (e.g., Baldwin et al, 1991;Clark, 1990;Hicks, 1984;Mathieu et al, 1992), performance/transfer (e.g., Baldwin et al, 1991;Facteau, Dobbins, Russell, Ladd, & Kudisch, 1992;Ralls & Klein, 1991), and completion of training (Biersner et al, 1977;Mobley et al, 1979).…”

The Impact of Cross-Training on Team Functioning: An Empirical Investigation

“…However, the task had fairly high real-work validity (as noted, it is used to train real pilots), thereby increasing somewhat the generalizability of obtained results. Furthermore, this experiment can be considered a first step in designing theory-based training as prescribed by CannonBowers, Tannenbaum, Salas, and Converse (1991). Follow-up research is required in the field so that training interventions can be tested and refined in actual task settings.…”