The Air Force is looking into how much computer-based training airmen need.
"CBTs are not going away, but do they always have to be used?" Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force James Cody asked. "Can there be other methods used to deliver that that are more efficient and effective — and over what period of time? Does it all have to be done at the same time or can we space some of this out and have it build on each other?"
The Air Force wants to avoid CBT becoming "a priority over all other priorities" that gets in the way of airmen getting the mission done, Cody said.
"Let's give an example: Instead of sitting down and doing CBT that could take an extensive period of time, can we accomplish that training for 500 airmen that are sitting in front of a commander at a commander's call?" he said.
The Air National Guard is looking into whether briefings can replace CBT, said Air Force spokeswoman Rose Richeson. If the pilot program is successful, the Guard could implement it by 2017. Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh has asked if the program's findings can be applied to the rest of the force, Cody said.
"Every one of us certainly doesn't want to do CBTs that aren't necessary," he said. "The initial feedback from the Guard is really positive that there's some real fruit to be borne here."
