The Relationship Between a Mechanical Comprehension Test and Weapons-Training Tasks

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to establish whether a relationship exists between recruit RT4 (mechanical comprehension) scores and a weapons-handling task from the Royal Marines (RM) recruit training course. This aim was achieved through the collection of subjective and objective performance data from RM recruits carrying out the tasks. Statistical analyses revealed that performance at weapons training was significantly related to RT4 score. On the basis of the findings, it was concluded that low mechanical comprehension scores appear to be related to difficulties with weapons-handling tasks. This is of interest given the known association between low mechanical comprehension scores and training wastage. It is recommended that the use of RT4 as a selection measure for RM training may reduce the number of recruits joining training who are at high risk of opting out at a later date. British Crown Copyright 2005/MOD. Published with the permission of the controller of Her Britannic Majesty's Stationery Office.