Propane Learning Center

The system upgrade is scheduled to launch Oct. 26, 2020.

In addition to the improved navigation, users will notice:

• “Machine Learning” – This added feature enables the system to recommend training based on each user’s history of completed modules.
• Electronic Skills Assessment – This enhancement will enable certified evaluators to perform a skill assessment electronically for users from the same company.
• Offline Training – You can now download a training course, complete the training offline, reconnect to the internet and upload the results.
• Improved Reporting – Improved reporting capability makes it easier to access user history/information.
  We are also continuously working to add features and improvements within the Learning Center.

Yes. Webinars are being scheduled to tour the improved Learning Center and highlight the new layout and functions.  The first will be offered in mid-October 2020.

If you have questions or need any assistance with this transition, please contact us at [email protected].

Modularized training means dividing content into smaller pieces, known as modules. Multiple modules combined will create the content of a program. Modules will vary in length, but given their individual size being smaller than the whole program, they are more mobile compatible for employees to take them on mobile phones or tablets.

Modularized training also allows an employer to assign or skip content that is irrelevant to the job duties of a given employee. For example, if an employee would not be working with underground storage containers under 2,000-gallon water capacity, the employer can choose to remove that from the program materials. If PERC does not provide content on a desired topic – such as company policy on handling a customer concern – it can easily be created and added to the program at the appropriate place within the program.

Function-based training is related to the specific job functions that an employee will complete on the job. Since job titles and the related tasks under them vary greatly across our industry, PERC is designing programs targeted to all of the job functions throughout in the industry. An individual employer can choose to create paths of content by combining all of the functions of a given job title or career ladder appropriate to their needs.

Traditional training was developed around a job identity, like a “bobtail delivery operations” person. It was a comprehensive, multi-day training covering the topics that PERC deemed appropriate to that content. The new program is divided into multiple modules that can be covered in either classroom or online format. There is a recommended order, but content can easily be added or removed to customize it for the level of the audience and the needs of the organization.

For the classroom version of the program, a computer with PowerPoint and Word software, a projector, whiteboard, and materials to support the specific activities for the program. All of these are listed in detail at the beginning of the instructor materials.

For the online version of the program, one device per learner. It can be a mobile phone, tablet, or computer. For the more complex information, larger screens are recommended. Internet access is required to access the Learning Center.

At the basic level, assigning programs will be the same in the new system. The training manager will have additional options to allow customization and personalization of content.

PERC is developing content based on the latest best practices for adult learning and from industry feedback we’ve received from users on the changing needs of learners. We understand that learners are looking for a personalized, relevant learning experience. Working with marketers, we can create training that gets the learner on the job faster and focuses training on content directly relevant to their work.

PERC is creating a comprehensive program that will cover all of the content covered by the current Certified Employee Training Program (CETP) and more. Multiple programs will be available annually. PERC expects to have created all of these programs completed by 2023.

PERC safety experts are busy working to convert all training to align with job tasks. A full list of programs will be made available at a later date.

Emily Wood, Educational Content Development Manager, [email protected]

PERC is currently working with the Propane Council on the direction for CETP. Ultimately all training we create will have an assessment and evaluation related to it.

Communication with state licensing authorities is critical to make sure they understand that the same safety training content that has always been offered is still be available in the new modularized format. The training material is simply being packaged differently. You may need to provide the individual names of the new learning modules, programs or a reference to a particular learning path for any needed change in state law, rules or administrative policy within licensing agencies.

The best way is to:

• Make sure PERC training is recognized by your state.
• Update the statute, if necessary.
• Update the rule, if necessary.
• Communicate with your state licensing authority and update the administrative policy.

Because the modularized, function-based training breaks traditional training offerings into smaller pieces, PERC is still determining the details of how that fits in the certification program. For example, will certification be issued based on completion of a training program(s), a module(s), or a learning path in addition to passing a knowledge exam and completing an On-the-Job practical? Or will it involve some different configuration?

Although the answers are undetermined, a project team of PERC’s Safety & Technical Training Working Group is reviewing those issues and will make a recommendation to the full group for discussion and approval.

Emily Wood, Educational Content Development Manager, [email protected]