What are your thoughts of the pros and cons on the Air Force going more to distance learning PME?

2016-08-10T08:55:58-04:00

Pros: you have 6-12 months to complete depending on which PME, saves money because no TDY cost, stays in unit for that time so unit members don't have to pick up extra work while member is gone
Cons: no more networking and mentorship from other units/bases, people procrastinate and won't finish on time, members will take more time at work to do the PME, members will "Google" answers and not really pay attention or learn the material needed.

Response by MSgt Michael Smith made Aug 11 at 2016 1:03 PM

2016-08-11T13:03:22-04:00

From my experience, I think that ALS was really useful, but the NCO academy was was not. Honestly, I would have preferred a distance learning thing. I missed a deployment because I had to go to the Academy. That means someone else had to go instead. Most of the classroom stuff was quite useful, but all the stupid drill, uniform inspections, PT, and volunteer activities --totally could have done without them. What I learned mostly was how to function on a daily basis with a hangover --cause that is all my class did, school, PT, and then drinking --literally every night.

Response by LTC John Wilson made Aug 11 at 2016 9:46 PM

2016-08-11T21:46:52-04:00

DL is a useful tool in the kit, but there should be a good blend of DL with any PME (for any service).

DL saves money. It can also weed out those who lack the self discipline to complete the course work.

On the flip side of the coin, a resident phase allows one to focus on learning without the daily demands of working in an operational unit. Furthermore, working with other students builds interpersonal skills and allows one the opportunity to learn from others. Although it is the more expensive tool in the kit, it is worth the price of admission if used properly.

My experience is that a nice ratio of DL to Residence is 50:50 to 75:25.