Implementing the Systematic Approach to Training

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) has been implementing the Department of Energy’s Systematic Approach to Training (SAT) Handbook across multiple program elements. An ORNL report has recently been written to address specific technologies, methods, and tools available for creating and delivering training materials, both in-person and in an eLearning environment; implementing Kirkpatrick’s four levels of evaluation model to evaluate the effectiveness of training; and for overall training administration, control, and management to assure that lessons learned, and continuous quality improvement are achieved throughout the SAT process, on a manageable, sustainable platform. For large-scale domestic and international training programs in nuclear safety, security, or safeguards to be effective in content, administration, and cost, the SAT approach should be implemented, but only with effective tools, that enable creativity in learning, and also in the establishment of drills, exercises, table-tops, immersive learning, laboratory experiments, thought experiments, and group problem solving. In our work, we set out to discuss the features, costs, and benefits of three invaluable learning tools: Articulate Storyline 2.0, Turning Technologies student response systems (i.e. “clickers”), and the gAXIS learning management system. Clickers have been in use at the ORNL Safeguards Laboratory for some time now, and we have found that when applied properly, can be very effective at implementing the Kirkpatrick model. The Articulate Storyline creates interactive learning interfaces that are easy to navigate and use. It also facilitates design of multiple layers within a slide and supports the utilization of a variety of media such as, audio and video embedment, screen recording, running of scripts, and more. In addition, Articulate Storyline provides functionality to evaluate learning at multiple levels. These features in turn help to reengage learners’ attention during instructor-led or online training. The Turning Technologies functionality was synchronized with the current instructional design methodology to create active learning environments that expedite the learning process. This is a means of measuring how well each trainee understands the overall concepts being presented to him/her during and after the training sessions. In order to have a repository for training content, records and control of the developed training modules, the gAXIS learning management system of ORNL’s web based platform is expected to be the storehouse from where the training materials will be available to all trainers and learners. This system is accessible around the clock, from anywhere in the world. Also, the gAXIS system provides analytics to help monitor, facilitate, and coordinate the distribution of standardized training materials to organizations on behalf of any specific DOE program office. Based on this, it is expected that the application of these learning enhancers will exponentially augment the beneficial impact of DOE’s training programs. During the presentation, we will illustrate and demonstrate the power of these tools and methods for implementing the SAT approach.