An Assessment of Individualized Instruction in Navy Technical Training

A study was conducted to establish the current status of Individualized Instruction (II) in the Navy and other services, identify the factors influencing its effectiveness, identify present or potential problem areas, and recommend strategies/policies to improve II in Navy technical training. Particular attention was given to an assessment of instructor management of II by computer. First, all relevant Navy instructions, directives, and guidance were reviewed and an assessment made of their impact on the implementation and management of II in the Navy. Next, key summary articles dealing with the effectiveness/efficiency of II were reviewed in an attempt to establish a consensus concerning the utility of this instructional strategy. Third, visits were made to key sites in the Navy and other military services where information pursuant to the establishment of a comparative data base on II was obtained. Finally, findings and recommendations were developed on all information obtained. The major conclusion of the study was that the Naval Education and Training Command should continue to use II in Navy technical training. Specific recommendations for the improvement of II were provided in the areas of management information systems, training of instructors and managers, terminology, student-instructor incentives, cost benefit analyses, and further study requirements. (Author/BM)