Three industrial revolutions shaped the modern world: the steam engine, assembly line, and digital technology. We are now in the midst of the fourth – the convergence of physical and technological worlds. Up to now, individuals have fulfilled roles based on a prescribed, relatively narrow level of expertise; successful adaptation to modern workplace systems and bridging the gap between existing and future needs requires a shift from rigid, defined roles to flexible, adaptive skillsets (World Economic Forum, 2018).
Traditional, pre-convergence models of expertise conceptualize development from novice to expert as a function of learning over time, where high level expertise may be obtained with sustained effort and performance feedback (Chi, 2006; Dreyfus & Dreyfus, 1980; Ericsson & Lehmann, 1996; Hoffman, 1998). Much attention is given to observable performance, with far less concern about the thought processes underlying the behavioral outcome. For example, performers may be seen as improving when they incur fewer errors, increase accuracy, and decrease response time (Chi, 2006; Dreyfus & Dreyfus, 1980; Hoffman, 1998). Not accounted for are discrete improvements that may be applicable beyond the task at hand, such as increased knowledge, emotional regulation, and use of metacognitive skills, and decreased cognitive load (Eccles & Feltovich, 2008).
The modern workplace system has evolved beyond predictable task-based proficiency; to thrive in today’s world, individuals must be able to adapt to novel challenges and demands. This requires adaptive expertise, which involves the successful application of acquired skills to new arenas and represents an extension beyond most existing proficiency measures.
This paper presents a conceptual model for metacognitive skill development that supports adaptive expertise, which was developed and tested with U.S. Army Soldiers. This paper also describes prospective approaches to leverage our empirical understanding of metacognitive skills to augment Service Member development and effective performance in real-world, novel settings.
Keywords
ADAPTABILITY,COGNITIVE,CONCEPTUAL MODELING,EXPERTISE,HUMAN PERFORMANCE,MILITARY LEARNING,READINESS
Additional Keywords