Training Computer Skills for the Future Battlefield: A Review and Annotated Bibliography.

Abstract : As the Army moves toward a digital battlefield, the nation's defense will become reliant on the computer skills of its leaders, soldiers, and civilians. To embody this future force, Army training must successfully address the acquisition, retention, and transfer of computer skills. As a first step toward this goal, this research product reviews the literature concerning the acquisition, retention, and transfer of computer-based skills. A review of 76 articles examining the training domains of programming, software, simulation, and gaming ability was performed. General conclusions for each training area (acquisition, retention, and transfer) are presented. In general, the research does not build on previous findings in the area. In addition, many areas, such as the long-term retention of computer skills and individual difference variables, remain to be explored.