The tone of the originating question suggests that CRM cannot be taught – as argued by Genghis. Alternative views are that CRM is being taught but not particularly well or is not effective, or what ever is being taught as CRM is not actual CRM as envisaged.
I believe that CRM can be taught, but in many operations the alternative views dominate.
CRM has many and wide ranging definitions. The ‘standard’ definition (#1) can and should be interpreted in different ways as the concept demands adaptation to cultural norms and application within daily operations, i.e. operator specific. However, within such a broad remit there is opportunity for many misunderstandings.
IMHO, the overview provided in
CAP 737 – ‘CRM defined’, has significant practical value and is a good basis for training.
In particular, CAP 737 considers the individual first – cognitive skills, before the ‘team’ interpersonal skills (paras 3-4). This can circumvent concentrating on the person–person aspects in many interpretations of CRM, which unfortunately has been perpetuated by ICAO team concept.
In many instances the person–person, or social skills have been given a dominant role because they are perceived as easier to teach, often based on managing behavioral aspects or team building ideas. Whilst these are valuable in crew operations, the cognitive (individual) qualities have even greater value in promoting safety by first improving the individual and thence crew capabilities utilising the well trained individuals.
The cognitive aspects, generalized as ‘thinking’, are more difficult to teach, but as a skill, they can be taught and improved, used in team work, and embedded in everyday operations.
Yes CRM – ‘thinking’ - can be taught. If you teach people to improve their thinking ability, then most if not all of the other aspects associated with CRM can also be improved.
Teaching people to think doesn’t have to stray into deep cognitive psychology, the instructional skill is to keep things simple.
- How?
http://www.edwdebono.com/course/index.htm
AN ANNOTATED LIST OF CRITICAL THINKING TESTS
New Horizons for Learning: Teaching and Learning Strategies
http://www.ara.com/KleinDiv/KleinBaxter_2009.pdf
and your interpretation of CAP 737 for the CRM and the regulatory aspects.