AL UDEID AIR BASE, Qatar --
(Editor's note: This story has been localized by the 379th
Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs office)
The Air Force senior enlisted Airman released the latest
installment of Roll Call, outlining the way forward for enlisted professional
military education.
“The science of
education is changing before our eyes,” said Chief Master Sergeant of the Air
Force James A. Cody. “The blended learning approach - combining distance and
in-residence learning - takes advantage of technologies to deliver the highest
quality education.”
Chief Master Sgt. Danny Crudup, 379th Air Expeditionary Wing
command chief, took time to break down some of the nuts and bolts of the new
programs affecting Airmen at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, Sept. 25, 2014.
“I think it will be great once the new system comes into
place, this will bring the Air Force in line with what experts say is the best
learning method," said Crudup. “By
combining distance learning with the in-residence courses it will utilize
technology to give our Airmen the best education possible.”
“With this new system I advise Airman to not wait for the
notification to sign up for the course, but to take their career in their own
hands and sign up if they are in the window to attend these courses.”
The Air Force Senior NCO Academy adopted the blended
learning approach earlier this year, and the NCO academy will transition to the
blended approach during the coming year.
The Roll Call
discusses the new approach that blends distance learning – where Airmen move at
their pace, for up to a year, to learn theories and concepts – and in-residence
learning – which expands on the distance portion by combining scenarios,
exercises and interaction with fellow Airmen.
“The blended learning
approach delivers a higher quality education to all Airmen. The model is used
at top universities around the world because it’s recognized as the most
effective way to educate. We, too, recognize its value and are taking that next
step,” Cody said.