SOCALGAS - CURRICULUM TRANSFORMATION

THE CHALLENGE

Legacy Training System
The Gas Distribution industry has been handling classroom training the same way for a long time and there were opportunities identified for improvement.
• Leadership wanted to improve on the pen and paper model
• Training was considered by some as an inconvenient necessity
• The focus of training was seen by some as compliance, not competence
• Students had to travel and stay in hotels for several weeks at a time which was not cost effective
THE SOLUTION

Create a Flexible Learning Experience
We transformed the classroom training paradigm from a rigid, one size fits all approach to a flexible, personalized learning experience. We created a hybrid model that uses a blend of media and methods including eLearning, ILT, VILT, hands-on, XR, a prescriptive LMS, and more.
• Found opportunities to remove redundancies
• Developed modules that cross and synergize with multiple roles
• Provided self-paced upskilling modules to help unprepared workers level set with their classmates
• Provided a test-out option for advanced learners, allowing them to skip material they already know
THE IMPACT

• Reduced time to competency
• Increased student throughput
• Bridged geographical boundaries with remote training
• Made training readily available and accessible form anywhere at anytime
• Trained with fewer resources, freed up Instructors
• Standardized content
Cost savings were up to $1,500 saved per student and $200K per class annually.

MY ROLE: Project Lead, Strategy, Curriculum Design, Instructional Design, Writer, eLearning Developer, Co-UI/UX Design
LEARNING METHODOLGIES/FRAMEWORKS USED: Criterion Referenced Instruction (CRI)

Strategy

Isolated several methods to make the training system more flexible and efficient.

Prescriptive Learning

If students already knew the material they could test out, reducing total classroom time and requiring fewer SoCalGas resources.

Interactive, Challenging eLearning

eLearning was the backbone of the project's success. We converted a lot of the classroom pen and paper materials into eLearning modules that students could take from home.
This provided a self-paced, standardized experience for the students, freed up the class instructors, and made the system flexible, allowing for remote training and further enhancements.

Remote Instructor Led Training

When COVID hit, SoCalGas was not able to teach hands-on procedures while the students were remote.

We trained the instructors to use the Microsoft HoloLens and Dynamics 365 Remote Assist to teach hands-on procedures, equipment, and tools while allowing their classroom to stay remote.