Drjones,your absolutely nail on the head. The idea of the MCC course is not to teach a TR, its to teach CRM, teamworking...all those good skills that are essential on the aircraft. Note I dont just say 'flightdeck', as theres also cabin crew to think about. These folks are a fundamental part of the operation too. Im fortunate to work with some excellent cabin crew....very capable and 100% dependable.
If we really get down to the nitty gritty, the principles of MCC could actually be taught in a cardboard box....a car...or whatever. And this is the distinction that people need to make. Do you sign up to an MCC course because the FTO does it an all singing all dancing jet sim or do you sign up to the FTO that has a reputation for providing a good solid grounding in MCC and CRM. The answer of course probably lies somewhere between the two. Its worth thinking about however....does an airline assesment want to see that you've learned the inner gubbings of operating a 737 FMS, or do they want to see that you possess good basic flying skill, the ability to learn, and good MCC/CRM skills?? A huge emphasis these days is actually aportioned to the latter 2 elements.