Distance Learning: The Need for a Total Force Vision and Strategy

摘要

Educating and training its military personnel is an enormous challenge for the Air Force Reserve for three reasons. First, there are too many training requirements and not enough time to accomplish them. Second, the availability of part time reservists to attend resident courses is constrained. Third, accessibility to resident courses is limited even when reservists can find time to attend. Since a military member's knowledge and skill translate directly into combat capability and readiness, resolving these training problems is a great concern among senior leaders within the Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC). Distance Learning can provide the solution. The fundamental concept of distance learning is that 'students and teachers are separated by distance and sometimes by time'. This aspect of distance learning is especially relevant for over 73,000 part time Air Force reservists. Distance Learning can provide the flexibility and control these members require to accomplish education and training without impacting their family lives or civilian jobs. The Air Force Reserve is currently taking advantage of some USAF distance Learning courses, however, the Air Force Reserve needs to take distance Learning further than where it has gone and where it is going in the active Air Force. Reservists need distance Learning capabilities that provide training anytime and anywhere. This paper proposes that the AFRC work in partnership with the Air Force Distance Learning Office (AFDLO) to develop a new vision and strategic plan for implementing a Total Force Distance Learning System. It presents an in depth look at the Air Force Reserve's training problems, their detrimental effects, and some partial solutions. The current USAF distance learning strategy is examined for relevance and adequacy in meeting the reserves' needs. Recommendations for the AFRC to reshape and revitalize the current USAF distance Learning strategy are put forward.