MPS Training in a COVID World

In March of 2020, we were gearing up towards a busy Spring training schedule. The Interpretive Retreat and Scales & Tales Summit were hosted at New Germany State Park. Regional Listening Sessions were held at Tawes State Office Building and Greenbrier State Park. EMR Refresher courses had commenced in every region. The newest class of MPS Instructors were preparing for the eve before their final presentations. And then everything changed...

The Fall is generally when we look forward to dedicating some time to training. It provides us a chance to see colleagues from various parks and share our experiences from summer, all while participating in professional development classes. We need these networking opportunities now more than ever, after living with a variety of restrictions, adopting important new habits, and working essential jobs throughout this pandemic. So how can we accomplish these objectives safely and what will MPS training look like in 2020 - 2021? 

First, you can expect an online component associated with your normal training regiment. This will help minimize (or in some cases eliminate) the time required for in-person attendance and reduce overall concerns regarding travel, meal, and housing accommodations. Parents of school-aged children, who are now accustomed to distance learning, are probably familiar with the terms synchronous and asynchronous learning. 

Synchronous learning refers to all types of learning in which learner(s) and instructor(s) are in the same place, at the same time, in order for learning to take place. This includes in-person classes and virtual, interactive training when the whole class or smaller groups get together. Asynchronous learning happens on your schedule. While your instructor will provide materials for reading, lectures for viewing, assignments for completing, and exams for evaluation, you have the ability to access and satisfy these requirements within a flexible time frame.

In short, synchronous learning is virtual or in-person education that happens in real time, whereas asynchronous learning occurs through online platforms without real-time interaction. Blended learning is a style of education in which students learn via a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning presented online and traditional in-person formats.  

Second, all in-person classes will have limited seats based on the type of training, size of facility, and available equipment to ensure adequate space and enough supplies to avoid sharing whenever possible. Instructors will be conducting health screenings, to include the state building entry questionnaires and temperature checks, prior to allowing staff into MPS training facilities. Participants will be expected to observe appropriate physical distances (unless otherwise directed by instructors) and wear their masks at all times (except while actively eating or drinking). 

While the decision has been made to postpone a few long-term trainings  that involve extensive overnight accommodations until the Spring, such as Ranger School and Maintenance School, short-term training opportunities will be available utilizing the blended learning concept. Every effort has been made to modify the skills practice sessions that would typically involve close physical contact with classmates and instructors. 

For example, classes that involve first aid and CPR skills practice and testing will look very different. Partner response scenarios will be demonstrated at individual practice stations, separated by at least 6 feet, but the rescue team will communicate as if they are performing the lifesaving skills on the same manikin. Other first aid skills will be practiced on simulated limbs or even on yourself! EMR Refresher "appointments" will provide an opportunity for small groups to complete the in-person renewal requirements and allow time to thoroughly decontaminate EMS equipment and disinfect the training facility between groups.

MPS employee safety is our utmost concern. Please communicate with your instructor and DO NOT attend training if you have any concerns related to your symptoms or any doubts regarding a possible exposure prior to class. It is entirely possible that there may be last minute changes or postponements to scheduled training in order to ensure the health and well-being of all employees. 

In the event a participant tests positive after attending a training session, staff should follow the established agency notification procedures and directions given by the local health department and medical professional who cared for the employee. We understand that training will look and feel very different in a "COVID world," but we are confident that if everyone answers the health screening questionnaires honestly and adheres to the preventive measures in place we can provide a safe training experience for all.