Instructor Characteristics
To the extent that they are a representative sample of the civilian population, there is no reason to believe that Army instructors differ from civilian educators in terms of basic characteristics. Many Army instructors are, in fact, civilians. Regardless, Army instructor and civilian teacher beliefs have been shaped by similar kindergarten through 12th grade (K-12) and college education experiences. In addition, the two populations are unlikely to differ in terms of the basic personality traits associated with student-centered learning. They also have had similar opportunities to develop problem-solving skills and productive work habits as adults. For these reasons, and on the basis of discussions with Army education providers, it seems safe to conclude that, on average, Army instructors resemble civilian educators with regard to subject matter expertise, education-related beliefs, personality, work habits, and problem-solving capability.