Integrating Expert Knowledge and Simulation-Based Assessment for Wastewater Management Training

该项目正在设计和实施一种创新方法，以改善南卡罗来纳州环境培训中心对全州污水处理技术人员的培训。综合方法包括1)行业专家的认知任务分析，以引出显性和隐性知识和技能，作为掌握要素的基础；2)使用教学设计原则开发具有嵌入式智能反馈的真实模拟实践系统；3)将模拟与应用科学副学士课程和课程联系起来，用于劳动力证书项目。并为目前的废水处理人员提供继续教育课程。该项目为提高培训能力提供了一种灵活的下一代解决方案，允许在高风险和紧急情况下进行广泛的实践和解决问题，并在真实情况下为学习者提供具体的、量身定制的反馈。模拟与讲师模块相关联，允许评估学生的进步和开发修改和新颖的场景。该项目解决了废水处理运营商即将退休所带来的直接技术劳动力需求。它还为培训农村地区的工人和（或）非传统教育途径提供了一种有效和可扩展的模式，这种模式最终可以推广到其他技术领域。

This project is designing and implementing an innovative approach to improving the statewide training of wastewater technicians at the South Carolina Environmental Training Center. The integrative approach includes 1) cognitive task analyses of industry experts to elicit both explicit and tacit knowledge and skills as a basis for elements of mastery, 2) using instructional design principles to develop an authentic simulated practice system with embedded intelligent feedback, and 3) linking simulations to courses and curricula for an Associate Degree in Applied Science, for a workforce certificate program, and for continuing education courses for current wastewater operators.The project represents a flexible, next-generation solution to increasing training capacity, allowing extensive practice and problem solving in scenarios that include high risks and emergencies, and providing specific, tailored feedback to learners in authentic situations. Simulations are linked to instructor modules, allowing assessment of student progress and development of modified and novel scenarios. The project addresses the immediate technical workforce need brought on by impending retirements of wastewater operators. It is also providing an effective and scalable model for training workers from rural settings and/or nontraditional educational pathways that can ultimately be extended to other technical fields.