The Army Modeling and Simulation School (AMSS) is continually seeking solutions to better understand and address the US Army’s current and emerging analysis, modeling, and simulation educational and training needs. Currently, fundamentals for the use and application of Modeling and Simulation are taught on a general level, however, findings indicate a need for course content customized for specialized needs in the various communities (Medical, Logistics, and Cyber for example). The AMSS continues to gather information for updating and refining the current curriculum with focus on content areas requiring specific expertise.
This paper will capture how the AMSS Analysis Team has utilized a variety of techniques to gather the latest information and concerns from the Army communities in order to stay current and relevant. This effort is currently performed through immersion into 5 major group venues, related workshops and forums, as well as having had the team conduct over 300 individual interviews with multiple government and military personnel, capturing community-specific needs. Major Needs captured have been categorized into 23 areas and have been furthered defined into 52 Critical Tasks. The results have been utilized to develop 3 new courses and educational updates in the areas of Scenario Development, Database Management, and Understanding the Army Communities. In addition, emerging technologies and the continually changing operational focus of Army communities, is creating new demands with unique requirements for training and education.
To continue the refinement of Army educational needs, these findings have demonstrated the need for an up-to-date and relevant curriculum library, listing both government and traditional academia opportunities. Additionally, the value of interpersonal communication and the sharing of resources and ideas among the communities through a centralized learning suite are paramount to continuity throughout all groups over time.