When it comes to training their new managers, NASA takes a creative and engaging approach. Instead of a typical lecture or workshop, they screen the movie “Armageddon” during their management training program. This surprising fact sheds light on NASA’s innovative and unconventional methods to develop effective leaders.
According to Today I Found Out, this peculiar training practice dates back to the early 2000s. New managers are assigned the task of critically analyzing the movie and spotting as many errors as possible. Remarkably, they have managed to identify at least 168 errors in the film.
The movie “Armageddon,” directed by Michael Bay, is a thrilling science fiction disaster film released in 1998. It depicts a fictional scenario where NASA discovers an asteroid hurtling towards Earth, threatening all life. In a desperate attempt to save humanity, NASA recruits a team of oil drillers to land on the asteroid and detonate a nuclear bomb, splitting it in two.
By incorporating this movie into their training program, NASA aims to encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork among their new managers. They use the numerous errors found in the film to initiate discussions on how issues could be better addressed in real-life scenarios. This exercise helps the managers develop a keen eye for detail, enhance their decision-making skills, and learn from the mistakes depicted in the movie.
While it might seem unusual to use a work of fiction as a training tool, NASA’s choice of “Armageddon” holds great significance. The film presents an opportunity to explore the complexities of managing a high-stakes mission with limited resources, time constraints, and the constant pressure of ensuring the survival of humanity. This immersive experience offers NASA managers valuable insights into the challenges they may face in their roles, fostering a deeper understanding of leadership in extreme situations.
Moreover, the use of popular culture in training programs can capture trainees’ attention, making the learning process more engaging and memorable. By selecting a well-known blockbuster like “Armageddon,” NASA taps into the shared cultural knowledge and references that the movie offers. This approach not only helps new managers relate to the material but also encourages active participation and lively discussions during the training sessions.
In conclusion, NASA’s incorporation of the movie “Armageddon” into their management training program is a unique and effective way to sharpen the skills of their new managers. By critically analyzing the film and spotting errors, these aspiring leaders develop important decision-making abilities, problem-solving techniques, and teamwork strategies. NASA’s innovative approach demonstrates their commitment to nurturing effective and capable managers who can navigate the challenging and often unpredictable world of space exploration.
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