The climate surrounding an AAR must be one in which the participants openly and honestly discuss what transpired, in sufficient detail and clarity, so everyone understands what did and did not occur and why.
Most importantly, participants should leave with a strong desire to improve their proficiency.
- An AAR is performed as immediately after the event as possible, by the personnel involved.
- The leader’s role is to ensure skilled facilitation of the AAR
- Reinforce that respectful disagreement is OK. Keep focused on the what, not the who.
- Make sure everyone participates.
- End the AAR on a positive note.
What was planned?
What actually happened?
Why did it happen?
What can we do next time?
(Correct weaknesses/sustain strengths)