Logo: to the web site of the Swedish Defence University

Purpose:

Sweden’s accession to NATO on 7th March 2024, amid heightened regional threats and hybrid security challenges, underscores the growing importance of civil–military collaboration in strengthening total defense and comprehensive emergency preparedness. This study evaluates whether an enhanced constructive alignment model, integrating context support from Edmondson’s team learning theory, can offer a systematic and pedagogically grounded framework for analyzing and improving civil–military collaboration exercises.

Design/methodology/approach:

A qualitative case study was conducted during a civil–military exercise at a Swedish air base in June 2024. Data from participant observations were analyzed using the enhanced constructive alignment model, focusing on the alignment of intended learning outcomes, teaching and learning activities, task assessment and context support.

Findings:

The model effectively guided the design and evaluation of the exercise. Stronger alignment and contextual support improved learning. Key success factors included clear objectives, structured leadership, legal expertise and a shared decision-making method.

Research limitations/implications:

The absence of formal task assessment limits quantitative evaluation. Sole reliance on observation may restrict insight into individual experiences. Future studies should incorporate interviews.Practical implicationsThe model offers a pedagogical structure for designing civil–military exercises. It supports readiness through coherent teams, legal integration and structured decision-making, suitable for complex emergency scenarios.

Social implications:

Improved civil–military collaboration strengthens societal resilience and democratic legitimacy in crisis response. The model contributes to greater public trust and equity in managing emergencies.Originality/valueThis study presents a pedagogical framework linking learning theory and contextual support, with practical relevance for education in emergency management.