A Study of the Air Force's Current Method of Training Individuals to Use Contractor Developed Software in Information Management and the Perceived Effectiveness of Training

The purpose of this research was to determine if the Air Force's current method of training untrained individuals to use contractor developed automated information management software is producing the desired levels of productivity and the effectiveness of the training. The study found that greater emphasis must be placed on developing and supporting the use of a standardized training program for the managers and users of automated information management software. Due to the lack of quality training, the majority of survey respondents felt they could perform their jobs more efficiently and be more productive if they had some/more training. The study recommends three possible means of correcting this training problem: (1) include hands-on computer training programs in all Information Management technical training programs, going beyond the basics required to turn on a computer, including introductory training in basic operating system commands; (2) development of initial and follow-on training programs, to be taught at all field training detachments, for all automated information management systems; (3) development of professional continuing education courses to provide officer and senior enlisted information managers the training needed to effectively manage all forms of automated information management systems. Keywords: Information management training, Information systems, Training effectiveness, USAF software training, Software training, USAF training, Theses.