NROI has developed and implemented some new training modules as part of an online Learning Management System, or LMS. The initial modules involve two pre-seminar tests on Moodle, an interactive and highly adaptable online training system. For level one seminars, registrants will be sent a link to log into our training system and take the exams, which are designed as teaching tools as much as they are tests. The results don’t count against you in any way, and the answers can be discussed during the seminar. As each question is answered, there is a short discussion note that follows your submission, explaining what the correct answer is and why. The tests are designed to acquaint the students with the USPSA rules and get them going through the rulebook prior to the seminar—they replace Tests A and B from the workbook.
This effort is part of a revamp of our training methods, with incorporating more hands-on and demonstration exercises into the level one seminar the goal. While the pre-tests are optional right now, we anticipate requiring them as part of the passing grade of the seminar. For the level two, or Chief Range Officer Seminar, a pre-class test has been the requirement for some time. The level two pre-class tests are also up on Moodle, along with an option to upload your course of fire for the seminar. As we expand our LMS capability, we plan to add some portions of the RM training and Steel Challenge and Multigun Endorsement modules as well. Continuing education modules are also being planned, so that certified Range Officials can keep up with changes in the rules, or just use them as a general refresher.
Speaking of seminars, in addition to the Learning Management System efforts, we’ve also developed a new, digital, student guide for the seminar. Upon registration, prospective students will be directed to a link where they can download the student guide and rules onto a phone, tablet, or laptop, for use in class. USPSA will provide a limited number of tablets to each seminar as loaners if needed, but we will no longer print and ship large volumes of paper to every seminar.