Year
2002
Abstract
Increased inspector turnover combined with the need to operate within a schedule-driven environment raises a number of training issues: Can the training process be accelerated? Should outgoing inspectors contribute to the education of new inspectors? How can process-specific, refresher (recall) training be more accessible to inspectors and technicians? The IAEA is already leveraging three popular training methods (instructorled, computer-based, and video-based training) in an effort to meet inspector and technician training needs. However, these questions demand a comprehensive approach to IAEA training that (1) incorporates the notion of just-in-time training, (2) conveys the actual day-to-day experiences of seasoned inspectors and technicians, and (3) allows for hands-on study of equipment and processes that confront inspectors and technicians in the field. While instructor-led training provides the most learner feedback and media richness (extent of two-way communication), it is not always cost-effective and cannot be delivered on-the-fly. Computer-based training allows for a \"communications feedback loop,\" but lacks immediate interpersonal interactions and is often utilized in lieu of an instructor. Recent years have shown an increase in the use of video training--especially the use of drama to engage and stimulate the student’s interest in the subject; however, video often lacks the hands-on encounter that is necessary for comprehension. The following paper explores the use of Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) technology to use modeling and simulation to support realistic training programs for the IAEA. The use of simulators in medical and military training programs demonstrates how simulations can serve as a tool to improve training as well as to help the instructor evaluate student comprehension. By training with simulators, students can better understand the complexities involved with data collection, equipment functionality, and operation under time constraints and environmental hazards; circumstances that IAEA inspectors often face in the field. Used in combination with any of the three existing forms of training delivery (instructor-led, computer-based, and video-based training), students can directly manipulate the simulation model and try things out to see immediately how results change and how analyses are affected. Then—by incorporating case study experiences of seasoned inspectors and technicians into the course content—teachers can show students that measurement, data collection, and analysis issues are dependent on situational factors.