The Type 45 (T45) Training Unit (TU) located in the Maritime Warfare School (MWS), HMS COLLINGWOOD has just completed a 3 month implementation programme of its new Learning Content Management System (LCMS) that will enable it to develop training fit for the 21st Century.
Using OutStart Evolution LCMS, the T45 TU is now capable of producing computer based courseware for training the latest technologies found on the new T45 Destroyer. With new and different operational doctrine and maintenance philosophies, T45 equipment requires a different type of training solution compared to existing platforms. Hence using the Evolution LCMS, TU can manage the design and build lessons using the latest computer graphics and emulations to enable an effectively trained ship’s crew.
The T45 TU is breaking new ground for the Royal Navy in many respects, not only is it the first time that Warfare (War), Weapon Engineering (WE) and Marine Engineering (ME) training is being developed in the same location for a new to Service platform, but using the LCMS and new course design methodologies the TU members are changing the way Training Design takes place. Using equipment based task analysis, T45 training material can be re-used for many different courses and the LCMS allows the same material to be delivered to all (saving time in its development/updating). By using the Evolution LCMS for Single Sourcing of all course outputs, PowerPoint, self-paced CBT, assessments, ISPECs, course handbooks and even PDA support tools can now be produced, reusing material and ensuring coherence and coordination between them all.
Once the training material has been developed it can be further reused by applying a new theme (style), so the same course material can be delivered in different Establishments but with the look and feel tailored to the host training organisation. Using the Evolution LCMS for personalisation of courseware, further enhancements to the training’s bespoke feel can be made by using versions of graphics/emulations specific to the individual; an example is that maintainers on later T45 platforms with different equipment states can be provided with the correct version of the equipment during training, allowing several maintainer in the same lesson to receive the correct modification state for the ship they are to join.
The T45 Trainees will receive their training via the Defence Learning Portal (DLP) through a blend of Instructor led training, computer based emulations and where appropriate physical part task trainers. The emulations will be delivered by a 3 screen display that will include the training material, emulations and reference material. T45 will also have Interactive Electronic Technical Manuals (IETMs) for all equipment, thus bringing technological advances into another aspect of the training and the job.
Although the whole T45 TU has been trained in the use of the Evolution LCMS, Lt Paul Pine RN has been the main recipient of all the supporting workshops, “I am very pleased with the Evolution LCMS and the Implementation Programme has been a particular success. The time spent with OutStart and AgustaWestland has not only allowed us to develop effective training content, but has also giving us the guidance required to develop new processes for training design that will change the way the Royal Navy develops training.” Assisting Lt Pine throughout the implementation programme has been Dave Ward and Kevin Blenkinsopp, both Flagship members of the T45 TU and now supporting LCMS Administrators.
The Evolution LCMS developed by OutStart was selected for the TU by British Telecom (BT) as part of the DLP project. With the LCMS came a 3 month long implementation programme facilitated by OutStart and AgustaWestland, teaching members of the T45 TU how to use the LCMS and develop the workflow processes required to create effective T45 Training. The implementation programme was delivered by OutStart and AgustaWestland, both giving workshops based on LCMS practices and philosophies (OutStart), and practical examples and guidance (AgustaWestland). AgustaWestland first started using the OutStart Evolution LCMS five years ago to develop MoD wide Bowman Training and have further developed their practices on the EH101, Lynx and Apache Helicopter programmes. AgustaWestland is now OutStart’s UK partner for the delivery of training technologies including the LCMS.
Now the T45 TU has the tools of trade, they are in the process of developing T45 courses ready for Mar 08 (ME) and Jul 08 (War and WE). Looking further into the future, using its Evolution LCMS, the TU can develop courses in a shorter timescale, reusing its state of the art media, personalising courseware and maximising effective and efficient learning for all.
Further information about the OutStart Evolution LCMS can be found on the internet at www.outstart.com, and AgustaWestland at http://www.agustawestland.com. Further information about T45 Training can be found on the MoD intranet at http://25.12.228.51/t45/index_t45.htm
