| Description |
The purpose of this study was to develop and test a statistical methodology for comparing 52 variables derived from identified problem areas in contemporary Army ROTC programs. An analysis of variance was the first major step in this methodology and served the purpose of comparing successful to substandard Army ROTC detachments located throughout the United States by considering each independent variable and its relationship to the dependent variable, cadet enrollment. The second step in the methodology was to determine, and subsequently rank order, which independent variables were most influential with regard to the dependent variable by means of a multiple regression analysis. Derivation of a predictive equation using coefficients from the multiple regression analysis was the last step in the methodology. Information from various sources was then used to examine the predictive value of the equation. Data used in this study consisted of three elements: a. A questionnaire instrument containing discrete and opinion/attitudinal variables mailed to each of the existent 284 Army ROTC detachments in the United States. b. A similar 'instrument mailed to presidents of institutions hosting the ROTC detachments. c. Factual information published routinely by the U. S. Army concerning both ROTC detachments and the host institutions. Data from the detachments, host institutions and published sources success of an ROTC detachment can be predicted with reasonable accuracy, given data on the independent variabIes of the study. The major recommendation of the study is that the findings be used in making decisions about ROTC programs to include: a. The future establishment and termination of detachments. b.' The shifting of some responsibility for the attainment of ROTC desired learning outcomes from the detachment to regular curricular offerings in the institution. c. The number of military personnel assigned to ROTC detachments be reduced based on institutional capabilities and desires in the fulfillment of desired ROTC learning outcomes. Lastly, the study recommends a refinement and -Iteration of the methodology. |
