The Impact of Computer-Based Training on Operating and Support Costs for the AN/SQQ-89 (v) Sonar System

Abstract

The U.S. Navy transitioned to computer-based training (CBT) in A and C schools in 2003 after a 2001 Revolution in Training report claimed that the Navy would realize savings in cost and training time without negatively affecting the quality of sailors arriving to the fleet. Anecdotal evidence from ship personnel suggested otherwise. This study analyzes maintenance data for the AN/SQQ-89(v) sonar system to determine whether the transition to CBT contributed to increased fleet maintenance costs. Government studies showed that the conversion to CBT was not the sole contributing factor to increased fleet maintenance costs or degraded fleet material readiness. Changes to the Navy’s training, maintenance, and manning programs during the early 2000s were all contributing factors. If the conversion to CBT were to have an effect anywhere in the Navy maintenance system, it should be seen in maintenance activities where sailors were performing maintenance on ships. Our analysis revealed that the average cost of these activities was significantly greater after CBT was implemented. This would support the anecdotal evidence that CBT was impacting the quality of maintenance on ships.