Figure 1 presents a framework for designing an effective team training program, adapted from Cannon-Bower and Salas55. The figure identifies three variables that are important in the development of team training strategies: tools, methods, and competencies. These variables are arranged on the periphery of the figure, which is an inverted triangle, with tools and methods at the top and competencies at the bottom.
Tools (e.g., team task analysis, task simulation and exercises, feedback, and principles) are used to identify team training content. Methods (i.e., information-based processes, demonstration-based processes [e.g., videos], and practice-based instruction [e.g., guided-practice, role play, etc.]) are used to educate and coach trainees. Finally, competencies (i.e., attitudes, knowledge, and skills) are the content being communicated to the trainees. When used together, tools, methods, and competencies create a synergy of team training strategies (e.g., cross-training, coordination training, team leader training, team self-correction training, etc.), which are represented in the center of the figure. All of the variables and strategies are shown to interact.