Which term describes the process of learning from analysis of past data at AFIT?

The term that best describes the process of learning from the analysis of past data is historical analysis. This process involves examining previously collected data to identify trends, patterns, and insights that can inform future decision-making. At AFIT, this method is significant because it allows researchers and students to harness historical data to understand how past decisions might influence outcomes and can be leveraged to improve future strategies and practices. By focusing on what has happened previously, historical analysis fosters a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play in various scenarios, which is crucial for informed strategic planning and effective problem-solving in military and operational contexts.

While data synthesis refers to combining various sets of data to derive new insights, it does not specifically focus on the analysis of past data as historical analysis does. Strategic planning is a broader concept that encompasses setting goals and determining actions to achieve those goals, but again, it does not specifically highlight the learning aspect from historical data. Field experimentation involves testing theories or hypotheses in a real-world setting, which is quite different from looking back at historical data for insights.