Attrition reporting in Navy technical training

Abstract

This study examines academic review board (ARB) decision making in Navy technical training in relation to standardization in the system for reporting training attrition. The results of a survey show differences in ARB procedures across the schools sampled, and that there is fairly high agreement among ARB members about the value of the factors they consider in deciding to setback or attrite students in training. The study also includes a discussion of ARB member perceptions of the effects of the Navy's policy to keep training attrition low. The recommendations address the differences found, but also point out that the accuracy of ARB decisions is still unknown. A study of the costs and fleet performance of marginal students would provide a concrete basis for establishing attrition policy