Custom eLearning Solutions to Deliver Mission-Critical Training

The 39th Information Operations Squadron, located at Hurlburt Field, Fla., is the U.S. Air Force's premier Information Operations and Cyber formal training unit. The unit conducts qualification and advanced training to provide mission-ready Information Operations and Cyber Warfare operators for all Air Force Major Commands.

Every DOD operation depends on the cyberspace domain.  Increased reliance on the domain has made it critical to operations and it must be defended 24/7.  Potential cyber warriors in the Air Force learn highly technical information and skills through this program that are essential to executing the Air Force mission of defending the nation. 

The course is entirely a classroom-based program. The one-dimensional nature of the program did not engage or immerse participants. Due to the absence of activities, there was no platform to apply new knowledge and skills, thus delaying the process of getting learners mission-ready. Further, an in-person training delivery program meant increased travel and instruction costs. 

ELB Learning was honored to partner with Information Ops and Cyber Airmen professionals on base, to convert classroom training into online learning to provide several benefits to the continuing education of cyber warriors. 

The proposed solution puts the focus firmly on training delivery, content consistency, solution sustainability, and scalability.  This was achieved while reducing travel and instruction costs. Working with the instructor corps (experienced active duty, civilians, and contractors with expertise ranging in cyber warfare, electronic warfare, and influence operations), the custom development team at ELB Learning designed and developed more than 50 modules of hands-on, cognitive exercises that provide feedback in real-time through a learning experience that is both memorable and meaningful. 

As they apply new knowledge and skills, learners confirm their understanding through a low-risk practice environment at their own pace and with intentional guidance designed to enhance potential. In a self-paced training environment where no instructor is present, knowledge checks are key touchpoints through each module where learners demonstrate their grasp of the subject matter. Because cyber-security is complex and presents multiple dimensions for problem-solving, learners are challenged to immediately apply new knowledge and receive feedback that shapes their learning.  

One advantage of classroom training for cyber-security is a live instructor who can explain multiple disparate systems and how they interact. To simulate this dynamic, the online ADL program instructs learners to open a separate window and then follow directions to accomplish specific tasks. They are encouraged to share the results of their work with an instructor who can then provide feedback and remediation when needed. Nuanced topics that require a deeper dive are handled during one-on-one sessions with instructors. 

This program was designed as a bridge course for those entering a new position in cyber-defense of weapon systems on base.  As work roles expand dramatically, the 39^th IOS schoolhouse relies upon the ADL model created by ELB Learning, to provide a solid foundation that will prepare cyberwarriors for their next assignment. 

Engaging learning interactions and immersive online elements with real-world graphics, and real-world scenarios provide just the right platform to deliver this foundation and ensure mission success.