Index IntroductionImportance of Practical Training in Lifelong LearningCritical Thinking and Learning in the ArmyDeveloping Better Leaders in the ArmyConclusionWorks CitedIntroductionThis essay aims to inform you about lifelong learning, the Army, practical training, ownership of learning and critical thinking and how they build leaders. Lifelong learning (SBT) is the continuous, voluntary and self-motivated pursuit of knowledge for professional or personal reasons. SBT began in the 21st century. It replaced the lectures the soldiers had attended before. The Army began this style at the Advanced Individual Training (AIT) level. “SBT relies heavily on three of the core principles of adult learning theory: experience (including errors) provides the basis for learning; adults are more interested in learning subjects that have immediate relevance to their work or personal life; and adults learn best when learning is problem-centered rather than content-oriented.” (Wyche 2013). Soldiers carry the SBT into their units upon graduation. SBT transports the Army into the new era of training. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The Importance of Practical Training in Lifelong Learning Lifelong learning begins with hands-on training. Hands-on learning trains soldiers through field exercises. Major General Wyche says, “SBT includes real-world scenarios to encourage transfer of learning to field expectations and employs the use of problem solving and diagnosis to resolve problems.” This statement outlines how field learning and field problems are better for learning. (Wyche 2013). The trainers provide short introductions to the lesson. After the short lesson, Soldiers practice these skills in the field. Soldiers encounter real problems during training. Soldiers solve problems by trying different solutions. The groups conduct field training to help each other. Group training gives soldiers different perspectives on problems. (Wyche 2013). This training makes Soldiers more effective. Assessors test skills on equipment according to standards. Soldiers who fail retrain until they pass. This ensures that every soldier knows how to correctly complete a task. Field training holds soldiers' attention better than lectures. Hands-on training makes soldiers better at their jobs. This style of training is the greatest benefit of lifelong learning in the Army. Critical Thinking and Learning in the Army Lifelong learning in the Army requires Soldiers to learn on their own and think critically. Soldiers study at home to develop their skills. Home study refines the skills learned that day. Studying the day's notes is all you need to complete this task. Soldiers also retain information learned over time in this way. This process requires Soldiers to think critically when problems occur. Soldiers receive short briefings and must use that information to resolve any problems. Critical thinking applies to the problem at hand using the information provided. A soldier finds a way to solve the problem as efficiently as possible. Soldiers learn how to apply their skills to any situation that may arise. Robert Schwartzman says, "Tomorrow's soldiers will be capable critical thinkers, 39(4), 70-75.