Effects of Cross-Training on Team Performance, Communication, and Workload in Simulated Air Battle Management

Abstract

Team cross-training is used to improve team interpositional knowledge (IPK). IPK is thought to promote adaptability, allowing teams to maintain coordination and performance when faced with challenges, such as increased task demands and role reconfiguration. The current experiment examined the effects of experiential cross-training, a form of training where teammates practice each other’s tasks and duties, in 5-person teams performing a command and control (C2) air battle management (ABM) simulation over a 5-day training period. Results indicated that under some conditions, cross-training resulted in slightly diminished team performance relative to control teams. Cross-trained teams also reported higher levels of workload throughout training. However, teams who underwent cross-training were better able to maintain team communication when faced with increased task demands.