Evaluating the Effectiveness of Cockpit Resource Management Training

The impact of Cockpit Resource Management (CRM) training can be evaluated using as criteria the behavior of crews in simulator and line flights, changes in attitudes regarding crew coordination and flightdeck management, and self-reports of participants regarding the utility of the training. Preliminary findings from a NASA-sponsored study of CRM effectiveness indicate significant effects on all three types of measures. However, the data also show that not all participants benefit from the training and some show a “boomerang effect” - showing less favorable attitudes regarding crew coordination following the initial CRM course. Issues that may enhance or diminish the effectiveness of CRM training and Line Oriented Flight Training (LOFT) are discussed.