A Cognitively-Based Competency Model for Small Unit Counter-IED Performance

Competency modeling is the process by which skills and areas of knowledge to perform a task are identified and associated with that job, task, or mission. This technique is useful to uncover which particular knowledge and skill areas are required for successful completion of a specific job or task. This paper describes a cognitively-based competency model developed to understand the types of tasks performed at the small unit level for counter-IED operations for the purpose of developing assessment items. We conducted data collection using a simulation interview protocol with Warfighters, and multiple raters coded each interview to develop the competency model. The model consists of six competencies, some of which have multiple sub-competencies, and the underlying KSAs. This process is particularly useful in applied settings, and the pairing of this type of data collection method and the competency model process can be used in various domains, particularly cognitively challenging ones.