Have You Ever Got into Trouble for Asking Unnecessary Questions?

The Culture of Questioning in the Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC)

Have you ever found yourself in the awkward position of being reprimanded for asking a question? In my experience as a midshipman in the NROTC, this was a familiar scenario, especially when it came to 'Navy Lab' sessions. These sessions, where we gathered in a lecture hall to listen to technical presentations by either NROTC staff or visiting officers, were typically just two hours of mandatory listening. But at the end of these sessions, the question that often followed was, 'Does anyone have any questions?' It was a question that, if poorly answered, could lead to much more than just a breach of etiquette.

The Consequences of Questioning

It was not uncommon for the presentioner to respond to the question and then face the harsh scrutiny of the Command Master Chief (CMC) during the post-session discussion. The CMC, a very senior navy enlisted member, would pull aside the questioning midshipman for a 'one-on-one' session, where they would be sternly reminded that 'not wasting people’s time' was a crucial rule in the Navy. The use of language such as “f-ing hand down nobody cares” was even more impactful. From then on, that midshipman would avoid asking any further questions in the Navy Lab.

The Impact on Learning and Leadership Development

The culture of not encouraging questions in the Navy NROTC was detrimental to the learning environment. It created an atmosphere where people felt afraid to voice their thoughts or ask for clarification. This can be particularly harmful when training future naval officers, as it stifles the kind of critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential in any leadership role. As someone who served in the Navy for almost 20 years, I believe this is one of the reasons why the Navy has a high incidence of accidents and mishaps. It's because the environment discourages individuals from raising their concerns, and as a result, potential risks do not get the necessary attention they deserve.

Encouraging Inquiry in the Learning Environment

It is crucial that learning environments, especially those aimed at developing future leaders, foster an atmosphere of open inquiry. When midshipmen are encouraged to ask questions, they are not just gaining knowledge; they are learning how to function as independent, proactive individuals capable of solving problems and making informed decisions. Ensuring that questions are not only allowed but encouraged is a significant step towards building a learning culture that values critical thinking, collaboration, and accountability.

Conclusion

The value of asking questions cannot be overstated. Whether in the NROTC or any other professional setting, a culture that values inquiry promotes a more dynamic and effective learning experience. By fostering an environment where questions are embraced, not only do we empower individuals to grow and develop, but we also create a cadre of leaders who are better equipped to handle the challenges they will face.