Emergency services (law enforcement, fire, EMS) traditionally take the test before teaching the lesson. On the job experience is the litmus test for most command officers. However, when over stressed, each individual will fall back on training and/or experience for answers. Having the ability to repetitively practice proper decision making under simulated stress build predictable responses to new/sudden decisions.
At the close of a training session, the objectives learned, because of the simulated “real time” practice, will become normal procedures the following tour of duty.