PPL Electric Utilities’ Distribution System Operator Program was a structured on-the-job training program with several weeks of classroom training interspersed with several weeks of on-the-job shadowing and practice with simulations and qualification used to progress the trainees through the levels. PPL took this curriculum, and broke it out into four phases with a flipped classroom methodology, where pre-reading was required and knowledge checks preceded the classroom sessions.
Program Details
Classroom-delivered sessions were changed from lectures by the instructors to group discussions and self-education of topics. Trainees were encouraged to present the information to each other in the form of discussions, with the instructor acting more as a moderator. This also allowed for more time and attention to be diverted to the incorporation of additional simulations.
PPL also implemented a mentoring process with formalized checklists and qualification sheets. Mentor training was developed, and all mentors were trained on adult learning principles, along with standards of evaluation and giving constructive feedback.
Results
Initial reactions have shown greater knowledge retention by the trainees as evidenced by higher overall test scores on the same test materials that were used in the previous classes. Initial reactions to the feedback and structure of the program have been positive from the trainees, as well as the mentors.
The time to progress through the stages is 17 percent faster than the average qualification time for the previous five groups of trainees. This has resulted in a 24 percent decrease in the cost of training a Distribution System Operator as measured by trainee and instructor time-related costs.
