Impact of the Phase 2 Infantry Advanced Leader Course (ALC)

A longitudinal research effort assessed the training value of the revised Infantry Phase II ALC on Soldier job performance (near transfer) and determined the impact of relevant training inputs (i.e., trainee characteristics, training design, and work environment factors) on the transfer process. Data from questionnaires, interviews and performance ratings were collected pre- and post-ALC and 3-5 months later at the students' unit from ALC students, supervisors, and peers. The research findings suggest that ALC positively impacted students' confidence to employ both NCO competencies and ALC tasks. Moreover, this confidence did not decline substantially when reassessed three to five months later at the unit. Nevertheless, additional findings indicated that ALC could be improved. Areas addressed included modifying the structure and format of the ALC to take advantage of the more experienced students knowledge and background, ensuring comparability between the resident and MTT versions of ALC, providing more hands-on experiences, deleting modules with minimal training value/opportunities for professional growth, selecting and training qualified cadre, setting and enforcing achievable course standards, and selecting qualified students to attend ALC. Issues related to various training input variables affecting transfer of ALC knowledge and skills to job performance were also addressed. Finally, suggestions for enhancing learning and transfer in ALC were provided. Prepared in collaboration with Northrop Grumman Corp., Columbus, GA.