Training for Cognitive Complexity
One might conclude that practical training alone is only useful if a relatively fixed set of relatively complex tasks must be performed over and over again. In contrast, combined conceptual and practical training... appears to be highly useful to improve effectiveness.
Apparently a greater understanding of the how of managerial thinking [provides] the opportunity to improve one's own managerial style, especially if practical suggestions are included.
A more optimal training program than the one employed in this research could be easily developed. Such a training program would, by necessity, have to be individualized… assess the specific (stylistic) structural competencies or shortcomings of a manager to focus training on areas of potential weakness.
Such a training program might even provide the trainee with examples of alternate actions that might have avoided errors made during the first simulation exposure.
