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Published on: February 13, 2020
Future Forward: Needs Assessment of Performance Experts on Technology Integration Within Mental Performance Training
Kourtney Sappenfield1,2, Megan C Loftin1,3, Robyn S Recker1,2
1Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD 20910, United States.
Military Medicine
|August 6, 2026
Summary
Performance Experts (PEs) show interest in technology for mental performance training (MPT), but low adoption rates indicate barriers. Addressing access and applicability issues is key to integrating these tools effectively.
Area of Science:
- Sport and performance psychology
- Military mental performance enhancement
- Technology adoption in training
Background:
- Advancing technology offers tools from sport and performance psychology to enhance Soldiers' mental performance.
- User acceptance and usability are critical for successful technology adoption in mental performance training (MPT).
- This study assessed technology use, interest, and preferences among Performance Experts (PEs) leading MPT.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the current use of technology in MPT by Performance Experts (PEs).
- To gauge PEs' interest in and preferences for technology in mental skills development.
- To identify factors influencing technology adoption and barriers to its implementation.
Main Methods:
- Electronic survey distributed to 119 Performance Experts (PEs) at 34 Army installations.
- Technology Readiness Index 2.0 (TRI 2.0) assessed PEs' perceptions and attitudes towards technology.
- Spearman correlations analyzed relationships between technology perceptions and usage; thematic analysis of open-ended responses.
Main Results:
- PEs reported low current technology use in MPT for both individuals and groups.
- Positive correlations found between PEs' belief in technology and their knowledge, confidence, and perceived MPT enhancement.
- PEs expressed optimism and low discomfort with technology but noted issues with access, maintenance, and applicability.
Conclusions:
- Performance Experts (PEs) demonstrate significant interest, confidence, and understanding of technology's potential in MPT.
- Barriers related to technology access, maintenance, and practical application opportunities hinder effective use.
- Addressing these barriers is crucial for successful integration of technology to improve Soldiers' mental performance.
