Improving Tactical Decision Making through Critical Thinking

Abstract

Expert military commanders construct an initial but comprehensive interpretation of complex or unfamiliar tactical situations (story). They subsequently adjust and refine this story by evaluating available information, by searching for consistency, and by critically testing underlying assumptions. This approach is used to develop critical thinking training. Two effect studies were conducted. Individual commanders (study 1) and commanding teams (study 2) played scenario-based exercises in both simplified and high-fidelity task environments. Half the group received instruction, guidance, and feedback in critical thinking. The other half received the same scenarios, but without any support. After training, test scenarios were administered to both groups. Results showed positive effects on the process of tactical command (i.e. better argumentation for situation assessment) as well as on the outcomes (i.e. more and better contingency plans). The method supports not only individual commanders, it also helps teams to develop a common understanding of the situation and to co-ordinate team actions.