U.S. patent application number 14/254068 was filed with the patent office on 2014-10-16 for hazard-zone incident command training and certification systems.
This patent application is currently assigned to Across the Street Productions Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Across the Street Productions Inc.. Invention is credited to Alan Vincent Brunacini, John Nicholas Brunacini, Robert Nicholas Brunacini.
Application Number | 20140308632 14/254068 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44912098 |
Filed Date | 2014-10-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140308632 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Brunacini; John Nicholas ;
et al. |
October 16, 2014 |
HAZARD-ZONE INCIDENT COMMAND TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION SYSTEMS
Abstract
Systems designed to train and certify persons to act as at least
one responsible person(s) for decision making and management
operations as part of an emergency response at incidents that
contain at least one hazard zone; such hazard zone defined as any
work area which contains a hazard that can injure or kill, for
example, burning structures, hazardous material incidents, roadways
with active traffic, natural disaster sites, and/or other emergency
response scenes.
Inventors: |
Brunacini; John Nicholas;
(Phoenix, AZ) ; Brunacini; Robert Nicholas;
(Phoenix, AZ) ; Brunacini; Alan Vincent; (Phoenix,
AZ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Across the Street Productions Inc. |
Phoenix |
AZ |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Across the Street Productions
Inc.
Phoenix
AZ
|
Family ID: |
44912098 |
Appl. No.: |
14/254068 |
Filed: |
April 16, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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13103856 |
May 9, 2011 |
8727782 |
|
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14254068 |
|
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61395277 |
May 11, 2010 |
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61467354 |
Mar 24, 2011 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
434/219 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G09B 19/003 20130101;
G09B 5/06 20130101; G09B 7/06 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
434/219 |
International
Class: |
G09B 7/06 20060101
G09B007/06 |
Claims
1. A computer system, relating to training at least one applicant
in fire-incident management skills in at least one client-server
architecture, comprising: a) at least one virtual-immersion
computer interface structured and arranged to provide virtual
immersion to the at least one applicant in at least one
fire-incident management situation, wherein said virtual immersion
trains the at least one applicant in a plurality of fire incident
management skills corresponding to functions performed in said at
least one fire-incident management situation, b) at least one
management-mentor computer interface structured and arranged to
provide management mentoring to the at least one applicant while in
such at least one fire-incident management situation to develop at
least one fire-incident management skill; c) at least one
sequential skill-training-navigator computer processor structured
and arranged to regulate navigation by said at least one applicant
of a skill-training sequence of a plurality of at least one
skill-training segments, wherein said sequential
skill-training-navigator computer enforces said skill-training
sequence of a plurality of at least one skill-training segments to
develop a plurality of said fire-incident management skills wherein
the enforcing comprises: requiring each fire-incident management
skill-training segment to be viewed in its entirety and any
questions answered with responses before said at least one
applicant may advance in said skill-training sequence; obtaining,
from at least one score-calculator computer processor structured
and arranged to calculate at least one score, at least one correct
percentage of said responses; creating a record indicating
completion of said fire incident management skill-training sequence
for any said at least one applicant having a score satisfying a
predetermined minimum following a predetermined maximum number of
attempts; requiring any said at least one applicant having said
score failing to satisfy said predetermined minimum following said
predetermined maximum number of attempts to repeat said
fire-incident management skill-training sequence; d) wherein said
at least one virtual-immersion computer interface comprises at
least one virtual-immersion computer processor structured and
arranged to generate such at least one fire-incident management
situation in said at least one virtual-immersion computer
interface, wherein said situation includes at least one radio
transmission simulation and at least one image representing the
fire incident; e) wherein said at least one management-mentor
computer interface comprises at least one management-mentor
computer processor structured and arranged to generate mentoring in
said at least one management-mentor computer interface, wherein the
mentoring comprises at least one video in which a speaker coaches
the applicant; and f) wherein said computer system provides
training to the at least one applicant in such at least one
fire-incident management skill using the at least one client-server
architecture.
2. The computer system according to claim 1 further comprising at
least one sequential situation-navigator computer interface
structured and arranged to provide at least one sequential
situation-navigation of at least one situation sequence of a
plurality of such at least one fire-incident management situations
to develop such at least one fire-incident management skill.
3. The computer system according to claim 2 further comprising at
least one situation-navigator regulator computer processor
structured and arranged to regulate navigation by the at least one
applicant of such at least one sequential situation-navigation of
such plurality of such at least one fire-incident management
situations; wherein said sequential situation-navigator regulator
enforces said situation sequence of a plurality of at least one
fire-incident management situations to develop a plurality of said
fire-incident management skills wherein the enforcing comprises:
requiring each fire-incident management situation to be viewed in
its entirety and any questions answered with responses before said
at least one applicant may advance in said situation sequence;
obtaining, from the least one score-calculator computer processor
structured and arranged to calculate at least one score, at least
one correct percentage of said responses; creating a record
indicating completion of said fire incident management situations
for any said at least one applicant having a score satisfying a
predetermined minimum following a predetermined maximum number of
attempts; requiring any said at least one applicant having said
score failing to satisfy said predetermined minimum following said
predetermined maximum number of attempts to repeat said at least
one situation sequence.
4-6. (canceled)
7. The computer system according to claim 1 wherein such at least
one skill-training sequence provides training in at least three of
such at least one fire-incident management skills selected from the
following: c) assumption of command; d) situation evaluation; e)
communication; f) deployment management; g) incident action plan
development; h) incident organization; i) incident action plan
review; j) termination of command.
8. The computer system according to claim 7 further comprising at
least one skill-navigation regulator computer processor structured
and arranged to regulate navigation by the at least one applicant
in such at least one sequential skill-navigation of such plurality
of such at least three skill training segments.
9-17. (canceled)
18. The computer system according to claim 1 further comprising at
least one quiz-presenter computer interface structured and arranged
to present at least one quiz to the at least one applicant at the
end of such at least one skill training segment.
19. The computer system according to claim 18 wherein said at least
one quiz-presenter computer interface comprises at least one
quiz-feedback-generator computer processor structured and arranged
to generate at least one quiz-correction feedback on at least one
quiz response submitted by the at least one applicant.
20-23. (canceled)
24. The computer system according to claim 1 further comprising: a)
at least one completion-record storer computer processor structured
and arranged to store at least one record indicating completion by
the at least one applicant of all of such at least one
skill-training segments; and b) at least one completion-record
retriever computer interface structured and arranged to provide
retrieval of such at least one record indicating completion of all
of such at least one skill-training segments by the at least one
applicant by at least one certification simulation lab
provider.
25. The computer system according to claim 1 wherein said at least
one virtual-immersion computer processor comprises at least one
media-streamer computer processor structured and arranged to stream
media over the at least one client-server architecture, wherein
said media comprises at least one of: at least one simulation-video
stream and at least one audio stream comprising at least one
radio-transmission-simulation audio stream.
26-30. (canceled)
31. The computer system according to claim 1 wherein said computer
system provides improved training preceding real-world
fire-incident decision-making competency evaluation.
32. A computer-implemented method, relating to training at least
one applicant in fire-incident management skills in at least one
client-server architecture, comprising the steps of: c) providing
virtual-immersion to the at least one applicant in at least one
fire-incident management situation wherein said virtual immersion
trains the at least one applicant in a plurality of fire incident
management skills corresponding to functions performed in said at
least one fire-incident management situation; d) providing
management mentoring to the at least one applicant while in such at
least one fire-incident management situation to develop at least
one fire-incident management skill; and c) providing regulation of
sequential skill-training navigation by said at least one applicant
of a skill-training sequence of a plurality of at least one
skill-training segments, wherein said regulation enforces said
skill-training sequence of a plurality of at least one
skill-training segments to develop a plurality of said
fire-incident management skills wherein the enforcing comprises:
requiring each fire-incident management skill-training segment to
be viewed in its entirety and any questions answered with responses
before said at least one applicant may advance in said
skill-training sequence; obtaining at least one correct percentage
of said responses; creating a record indicating completion of said
fire incident management skill-training sequence for any said at
least one applicant having a score satisfying a predetermined
minimum following a predetermined maximum number of attempts;
requiring any said at least one applicant having said score failing
to satisfy said predetermined minimum following said predetermined
maximum number of attempts to repeat said fire-incident management
skill-training sequence; e) wherein such step of providing virtual
immersion comprises the step of computer-generating such at least
one fire-incident management situation in at least one
virtual-immersion computer interface wherein said situation
includes at least one radio transmission simulation and at least
one image representing the fire incident; f) wherein such step of
providing management mentoring comprises the step of
computer-generating mentoring in at least one management-mentor
computer interface wherein the mentoring comprises at least one
video in which a speaker coaches the applicant; g) wherein such
step of providing virtual immersion and such step of providing
management mentoring provides training to the at least one
applicant in such at least one fire-incident management skill using
the at least one client-server architecture.
33. The computer-implemented method according to claim 32 further
comprising the step of providing sequential situation-navigation of
a plurality of such at least one fire-incident management
situations to develop such at least one fire-incident management
skill, wherein the regulating comprises: requiring each
fire-incident management situation to be viewed in its entirety and
any questions answered with responses before said at least one
applicant may advance in said situation sequence; obtaining, from
the least one score-calculator computer processor structured and
arranged to calculate at least one score, at least one correct
percentage of said responses; creating a record indicating
completion of said fire-incident management situations for any said
at least one applicant having a score satisfying a predetermined
minimum following a predetermined maximum number of attempts;
requiring any said at least one applicant having said score failing
to satisfy said predetermined minimum following said predetermined
maximum number of attempts to repeat situation sequence.
34-36. (canceled)
37. The computer-implemented method according to claim 36 further
comprising the step of storing progress of the at least one
applicant within each such at least one skill-training segment to
permit non-continuous training.
38. The computer-implemented method according to claim 32 further
comprising the step of providing at least one question to the at
least one applicant related to such at least one fire-incident
management skill.
39. The computer-implemented method according to claim 38 wherein
such step of providing at least one question further comprises the
step of providing at least one correction feedback on at least one
response submitted by the at least one applicant related to such at
least one question.
40. The computer-implemented method according to claim 38 wherein
such step of providing management mentoring further comprises the
step of providing question mentoring to the at least one applicant
relating to such at least one question.
41-42. (canceled)
43. The computer-implemented method according to claim 42 further
comprising the steps of: h) storing at least one record indicating
completion by the at least one applicant of all of such at least
one skill training segments; and i) retrieving such at least one
record indicating completion status of all of such at least one
skill training segments by the at least one applicant, upon request
by at least one certification simulation lab provider.
44. The computer-implemented method according to claim 32 wherein
said computer-implemented method provides improved training
preceding real-world fire-incident decision-making competency
evaluation.
45. (canceled)
46. A computer system, relating to training an applicant in hazard
zone management skills, comprising: a client-server architecture
whereby the computer system may display information to an applicant
and may receive responses from the applicant; a virtual-immersion
computer interface comprising a virtual-immersion processor
structured to generate a hazard zone management situation
comprising a skill-training sequence of a plurality of
skill-training segments whereby virtual immersion in the hazard
zone management situation is provided to the applicant wherein the
virtual immersion trains the applicant to serve in a role of a
hazard zone Incident Commander; and a management-mentor computer
interface comprising a management-mentor computer processor to
present management mentoring to the applicant while in the hazard
zone management situation to develop a hazard zone management
skill.
47. The computer system according to claim 46, further comprising:
a sequential skill-training-navigator regulator structured to
regulate navigation by the applicant of the skill-training
sequence, wherein the regulating comprises: requiring each of the
plurality of skill-training segments to be viewed in its entirety
and any questions answered with responses before the applicant may
advance in the skill-training sequence, and requiring the applicant
to repeat the skill-training sequence in response to failing to
provide a predetermined minimum number of the responses that are
correct.
48. A Incident Commander hazard zone training system comprising: a
media server structured to provide electronic certification
training comprising a plurality of training modules each comprising
educational information related to skills for developing a hazard
zone incident action plan; a testing server structured to require a
user to complete at least one quiz corresponding to each training
module; a content regulation server structured to unlock a second
training module of the plurality of training modules in response to
a user viewing and completing a first training module of the
plurality of training modules; and a quiz-computer interface
comprising a quiz-feedback processor structured to provide at least
one quiz-correction feedback on the quiz.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application is related to and claims priority
from prior provisional application Ser. No. 61/395,277, filed May
11, 2010, entitled "BLUE CARD HAZARD ZONE MANAGEMENT INCIDENT
COMMAND TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAM", and is related to and
claims priority from prior provisional application Ser. No.
61/467,354, filed Mar. 24, 2011, entitled "HAZARD-ZONE INCIDENT
COMMAND TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION SYSTEMS", the contents of both
of which are incorporated herein by this reference and are not
admitted to be prior art with respect to the present invention by
the mention in this cross-reference section.
BACKGROUND
[0002] This invention relates to improved training and certifying
of persons responsible for decision making and management
operations as part of an emergency response at incidents that
contain at least one hazard zone which contains a hazard that can
injure or kill responders or other persons. More particularly, this
invention relates to at least improving safety, command procedures
and hazard response procedure by at least Command personnel when in
an emergency response situation involving at least potential risk
of death or injury to responders.
OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE INVENTION
[0003] A primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide systems and methods overcoming the above-mentioned
problem(s).
[0004] It is a further object and feature of the present invention
to provide such systems and methods relating to training at least
one applicant in fire-incident management skills in at least one
client-server architecture.
[0005] It is a further object and feature of the present invention
to provide such systems and methods designed to train and certify
persons to act as at least one responsible person(s) (Incident
Commander) for decision making and management operations as part of
an emergency response at incidents that contain at least one hazard
zone; such hazard zone defined as any work area which contains a
hazard that can injure or kill, for example, burning structures,
hazardous material incidents, roadways with active traffic, natural
disaster sites, and/or other emergency response scenes.
[0006] It is a further object and feature of the present invention
to provide such systems and methods to provide an online
Incident-Commander training course.
[0007] It is a further object and feature of the present invention
to provide such systems and methods for interchange of
compensation, education, certification, and information between
entities involved in an Incident-Commander Training and
Certification Program.
[0008] It is a further object and feature of the present invention
to provide such systems and methods for an online
Incident-Commander Training Course comprising at least nine
training modules, eight of which preferably correspond to eight
fire-command functions to be performed by an
Incident-Commander.
[0009] It is a further object and feature of the present invention
to provide such systems and methods wherein at least one
skill-training sequence provides training to at least one applicant
in at least eight fire incident management skills.
[0010] It is a further object and feature of the present invention
to provide such systems and methods to teach and certify
fire-incident management skills selected from at least the
following: assumption of command; situation evaluation;
communication; deployment management; incident action plan
development; incident organization; incident action plan review;
termination of command.
[0011] It is a further object and feature of the present invention
to provide a computer-implemented method, relating to training at
least one applicant in fire-incident management skills in at least
one client-server architecture, comprising the steps of: providing
virtual-immersion to the at least one applicant in at least one
fire-incident management situation; and providing management
mentoring to the at least one applicant while in such at least one
fire-incident management situation to develop at least one
fire-incident management skill; wherein such step of providing
virtual immersion comprises the step of computer-generating such at
least one fire-incident management situation in at least one
virtual-immersion computer interface; wherein such step of
providing management mentoring comprises the step of
computer-generating mentoring in at least one management-mentor
computer interface; wherein such step of providing virtual
immersion and such step of providing management mentoring provides
training to the at least one applicant in such at least one
fire-incident management skill using the at least one client-server
architecture.
[0012] It is a further object and feature of the present invention
to provide such systems and methods wherein such computer system
provides improved training preceding real-world fire-incident
decision-making competency evaluation.
[0013] A further primary object and feature of the present
invention is to provide such systems and methods that are
efficient, inexpensive, and handy. Other objects and features of
this invention will become apparent with reference to the following
descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a computer system, relating to training at least
one applicant in fire-incident management skills in at least one
client-server architecture, comprising: at least one
virtual-immersion computer interface structured and arranged to
provide virtual immersion to the at least one applicant in at least
one fire-incident management situation; and at least one
management-mentor computer interface structured and arranged to
provide management mentoring to the at least one applicant while in
such at least one fire-incident management situation to develop at
least one fire-incident management skill; wherein such at least one
virtual-immersion computer interface comprises at least one
virtual-immersion computer processor structured and arranged to
generate such at least one fire-incident management situation in
such at least one virtual-immersion computer interface; wherein
such at least one management-mentor computer interface comprises at
least one management-mentor computer processor structured and
arranged to generate mentoring in such at least one
management-mentor computer interface; and wherein such computer
system provides training to the at least one applicant in such at
least one fire-incident management skill using the at least one
client-server architecture.
[0015] Moreover, it provides such a computer system further
comprising at least one sequential situation-navigator computer
interface structured and arranged to provide at least one
sequential situation-navigation of at least one situation sequence
of a plurality of such at least one fire-incident management
situations to develop such at least one fire-incident management
skill. Additionally, it provides such a computer system further
comprising at least one situation-navigator regulator computer
processor structured and arranged to regulate navigation by the at
least one applicant of such at least one sequential
situation-navigation of such plurality of such at least one
fire-incident management situations. Also, it provides such a
system wherein such at least one situation-navigation regulator
computer processor comprises at least one access-grantor computer
processor structured and arranged to grant access, within such at
least one situation sequence, to at least one subsequent such at
least one fire-incident management situation following completion
of at least one prior such at least one fire incident management
situation.
[0016] In addition, it provides such a computer system further
comprising at least one sequential skill-training-navigator
computer interface structured and arranged to provide at least one
sequential skill-navigation of at least one skill-training sequence
of a plurality of at least one skill-training segments to develop a
plurality of such at least one fire-incident management skills.
And, it provides such a computer system wherein such at least one
skill-training sequence provides training to the at least one
applicant in at least eight of such at least one fire incident
management skills. Further, it provides such a computer system
wherein such at least one skill-training sequence provides training
in at least three of such at least one fire-incident management
skills selected from the following: assumption of command;
situation evaluation; communication; deployment management;
incident action plan development; incident organization; incident
action plan review; termination of command.
[0017] Even further, it provides such a computer system further
comprising at least one skill-navigation regulator computer
processor structured and arranged to regulate navigation by the at
least one applicant in such at least one sequential
skill-navigation of such plurality of such at least one skill
training segments. Moreover, it provides such a computer system
wherein such at least one navigation-regulator computer processor
comprises at least one access-grantor computer processor structured
and arranged to grant access to at least one subsequent such at
least one skill-training segment following completion of at least
one prior such at least one skill-training segment within such at
least one sequence.
[0018] Additionally, it provides such a computer system wherein
such at least one navigation-regulator computer processor comprises
at least one access-revoker computer processor structured and
arranged to revoke access to such at least one skill-training
segment after at least one expiration period beginning at
completion of such at least one skill-training segment. Also, it
provides such a computer system wherein such at least one
expiration period comprises thirty days. In addition, it provides
such a computer system further comprising at least one
progress-storer computer processor structured and arranged to store
progress of the at least one applicant within each such at least
one skill-training segment to permit non-continuous training.
[0019] And, it provides such a computer system wherein such at
least one navigation-regulator computer processor comprises at
least one completion-limiter computer processor structured and
arranged to limit completion of such at least one skill-training
segment to at least one completion time limit. Further, it provides
such a computer system wherein such at least one time limit
comprises one year. Even further, it provides such a computer
system further comprising at least one question-presenter computer
interface structured and arranged to present at least one question
to the at least one applicant related to such at least one
fire-incident management skill.
[0020] Moreover, it provides such a computer system wherein such at
least one question-presenter computer interface comprises at least
one multiple-choice question-presenter computer interface
structured and arranged to present at least one multiple-choice
question to the at least one applicant related to such at least one
fire-incident management skill. Additionally, it provides such a
computer system wherein such at least one question-presenter
computer interface comprises at least one select-all-that-apply
question-presenter computer interface structured and arranged to
present at least one select-all-that-apply question to the at least
one applicant related to such at least one fire-incident management
skill. Also, it provides such a computer system wherein such at
least one question-presenter computer interface comprises at least
one response-submitter computer interface structured and arranged
to allow submission of at least one response from the at least one
applicant related to such at least one question.
[0021] In addition, it provides such a computer system wherein such
at least one question-presenter computer interface comprises at
least one correction-feedback-generator computer processor
structured and arranged to generate at least one correction
feedback on such at least one response submitted by the at least
one applicant related to such at least one question. And, it
provides such a computer system wherein such at least one
correction-feedback-generator computer processor comprises at least
one indicator-generator computer processor structured and arranged
to generate at least one indicator of such at least one correction
feedback of such at least one response.
[0022] Further, it provides such a computer system wherein such at
least one indicator comprises: at least one correct-indicator
structured and arranged to indicate at least one correct response
in such at least response; and at least one incorrect-indicator
structured and arranged to indicate at least one incorrect response
in such at least response. Even further, it provides such a
computer system wherein such at least one indicator comprise at
least one text-color change. Moreover, it provides such a computer
system wherein such at least one correct-indicator comprises at
least one text-color change of green.
[0023] Additionally, it provides such a computer system wherein
such at least one incorrect-indicator comprises at least one
text-color change of red. Also, it provides such a computer system
wherein such at least one management-mentoring computer interface
further comprises at least one question-mentoring computer
interface structured and arranged to provide question mentoring to
the at least one applicant relating to such at least one question.
In addition, it provides such a computer system further comprising
at least one quiz-presenter computer interface structured and
arranged to present at least one quiz to the at least one applicant
to complete such at least one skill training segment. And, it
provides such a computer system wherein such at least one
quiz-presenter computer interface comprises at least one
quiz-response-submitter computer interface structured and arranged
to allow submission of at least one quiz response provided on such
at least one quiz.
[0024] Further, it provides such a computer system wherein such at
least one quiz-presenter computer interface comprises at least one
quiz-feedback-generator computer processor structured and arranged
to generate at least one quiz-correction feedback on such at least
one quiz response submitted by the at least one applicant. Even
further, it provides such a computer system wherein such at least
one quiz-feedback-generator computer processor comprises at least
one quiz-feedback indicator-generator computer processor structured
and arranged to generate at least one quiz-feedback indicator of
such at least one correction feedback of such at least one quiz
response. Moreover, it provides such a computer system wherein such
at least one quiz-feedback indicator comprises: at least one
correct-indicator structured and arranged to indicate at least one
correct response in such at least response; and at least one
incorrect-indicator structured and arranged to indicate at least
one incorrect response in such at least response.
[0025] Additionally, it provides such a computer system wherein
such at least one indicator comprise at least one text color
change. Also, it provides such a computer system wherein such at
least one correct-indicator comprises at least one text color
change of green. In addition, it provides such a computer system
wherein such at least one incorrect-indicator comprises at least
one text color change of red. And, it provides such a computer
system further comprising at least one score-calculator computer
processor structured and arranged to calculate at least one score
of at least one correct percentage of such at least one quiz
response submitted by the at least one applicant. Further, it
provides such a computer system wherein completion of such at least
one skill-training segment requires at least one minimum of such at
least one correct percentage. Even further, it provides such a
computer system wherein such at least one minimum comprises
seventy-five percent.
[0026] Moreover, it provides such a computer system further
comprising: at least one completion-record storer computer
processor structured and arranged to store at least one record
indicating completion by the at least one applicant of all of such
at least one skill-training segments; and at least one
completion-record retriever computer interface structured and
arranged to provide retrieval of such at least one record
indicating completion of all of such at least one skill-training
segments by the at least one applicant by at least one
certification simulation lab provider. Additionally, it provides
such a computer system wherein such at least one virtual-immersion
computer processor comprises at least one media-streamer computer
processor structured and arranged to stream media over the at least
one client-server architecture.
[0027] Also, it provides such a computer system wherein such at
least one media-streamer computer processor streams at least one
video stream. In addition, it provides such a computer system
wherein such at least one media-streamer computer processor streams
at least one simulation-video stream. And, it provides such a
computer system wherein such at least one media-streamer computer
processor streams at least one audio stream. Further, it provides
such a computer system wherein such at least one media-streamer
computer processor streams at least one
radio-transmission-simulation audio stream. Even further, it
provides such a computer system wherein such at least one
management-mentor computer processor comprises at least one
mentor-media streamer computer processor structured and arranged to
stream at least one mentoring media over the at least one
client-server architecture.
[0028] Moreover, it provides such a computer system wherein such
computer system provides improved training preceding real-world
fire-incident decision-making competency evaluation. Additionally,
it provides such a computer system further comprising at least one
text-computer display structured and arranged to display at least
one textual content related to training the at least one applicant
in such at least one fire-incident management skill. Also, it
provides such a computer system further comprising at least one
image computer interface structured and arranged to display at
least one image representing such at least one fire-incident
situation.
[0029] In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a computer-implemented method, relating to
training at least one applicant in fire-incident management skills
in at least one client-server architecture, comprising the steps
of: providing virtual-immersion to the at least one applicant in at
least one fire-incident management situation; and providing
management mentoring to the at least one applicant while in such at
least one fire-incident management situation to develop at least
one fire-incident management skill; wherein such step of providing
virtual immersion comprises the step of computer-generating such at
least one fire-incident management situation in at least one
virtual-immersion computer interface; wherein such step of
providing management mentoring comprises the step of
computer-generating mentoring in at least one management-mentor
computer interface; wherein such step of providing virtual
immersion and such step of providing management mentoring provides
training to the at least one applicant in such at least one
fire-incident management skill using the at least one client-server
architecture.
[0030] In addition, it provides such a computer-implemented method
further comprising the step of providing sequential
situation-navigation of a plurality of such at least one
fire-incident management situations to develop such at least one
fire-incident management skill. And, it provides such a
computer-implemented method further comprising the step of
providing sequential skill-training navigation of a plurality of at
least one skill-training segments to develop a plurality of such at
least one fire-incident management skills in at least one skill
sequence. Further, it provides such a computer-implemented method
further comprising the step of regulating navigation by the at
least one applicant to such sequential skill-navigation of such
plurality of such at least one skill-training segments.
[0031] Even further, it provides such a computer-implemented method
wherein such step of regulating navigation further comprises the
step of granting access to at least one subsequent such at least
one skill-training segment following completion of at least one
prior such at least one skill-training segment within such at least
one sequence; The computer-implemented method further comprising
the step of storing progress of the at least one applicant within
each such at least one skill-training segment to permit
non-continuous training. Moreover, it provides such a
computer-implemented method further comprising the step of
providing at least one question to the at least one applicant
related to such at least one fire-incident management skill.
Additionally, it provides such a computer-implemented method
wherein such step of providing at least one question further
comprises the step of allowing submission of at least one response
from the at least one applicant related to such at least one
question.
[0032] Also, it provides such a computer-implemented method wherein
such step of providing at least one question further comprises the
step of providing at least one correction feedback on such at least
one response submitted by the at least one applicant related to
such at least one question. In addition, it provides such a
computer-implemented method wherein such step of providing
management mentoring further comprises the step of providing
question mentoring to the at least one applicant relating to such
at least one question. And, it provides such a computer-implemented
method further comprising the step of providing at least one quiz
to the at least one applicant at the end of such at least one
skill-training segment.
[0033] Further, it provides such a computer-implemented method
wherein such step of providing at least quiz further comprises the
step of receiving submission of at least one quiz response provided
on such at least one quiz. Even further, it provides such a
computer-implemented method further comprising the step of
calculating at least one correct percentage of such at least one
quiz response submitted by the at least one applicant. Moreover, it
provides such a computer-implemented method further comprising the
steps of: storing at least one record indicating completion by the
at least one applicant of all of such at least one skill training
segments; and retrieving such at least one record indicating
completion status of all of such at least one skill training
segments by the at least one applicant, upon request by at least
one certification simulation lab provider. Additionally, it
provides such a computer-implemented method wherein such
computer-implemented method provides improved training preceding
real-world fire-incident decision-making competency evaluation. In
accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a computer system, relating to training at least one
applicant in fire incident management skills in at least one
client-server architecture, comprising: virtual-immersion computer
interface means for providing virtual immersion to the at least one
applicant in at least one fire-incident management situation; and
management-mentor computer interface means for providing management
mentoring to the at least one applicant while in such at least one
fire-incident management situation to develop at least one
fire-incident management skill; wherein such virtual-immersion
computer interface means comprises virtual-immersion computer
processor means for generating such at least one fire-incident
management situation in such virtual immersion computer interface
means; and wherein such management-mentor computer interface means
comprises management-mentor computer processor means for generating
mentoring in such management-mentor computer interface means; and
wherein such computer system provides training to the at least one
applicant in such at least one fire incident management skill using
the at least one client-server architecture.
[0034] Also, it provides such a computer system further comprising
sequential situation-navigator computer interface means for
providing sequential situation-navigation of a plurality of such at
least one fire-incident management situations to develop such at
least one fire-incident management skill. In addition, it provides
such a computer system further comprising sequential
skill-training-navigator computer interface means for providing
sequential skill-navigation of a plurality of at least one
skill-training segments to develop a plurality of such at least one
fire-incident management skills in at least one skill sequence.
And, it provides such a computer system wherein such computer
system provides training to the at least one applicant in at least
eight of such at least one fire-incident management skills.
[0035] Further, it provides such a computer system further
comprising skill-navigation regulator computer processor means for
regulating navigation by the at least one applicant to such
sequential navigation of such plurality of such at least one skill
training segments. Even further, it provides such a computer system
wherein such navigation-regulator computer processor means
comprises access-grantor computer processor means for granting
access to at least one subsequent such at least one skill-training
segment following completion of at least one prior such at least
one skill-training segment within such at least one sequence.
[0036] Moreover, it provides such a computer system wherein such
navigation-regulator computer processor means comprises access
revoker computer processor means for revoking access to such at
least one skill-training segment after at least one expiration
period beginning at completion of such at least one skill-training
segment. Additionally, it provides such a computer system wherein
such navigation-regulator computer processor means comprises
completion-limiter computer processor means for limiting completion
of such at least one skill-training segment to at least one
completion-time limit. Also, it provides such a computer system
further comprising progress-storer computer processor means for
storing progress of the at least one applicant within each such at
least one skill-training segment to permit non-continuous
training.
[0037] In addition, it provides such a computer system further
comprising question-presenter computer interface means for
presenting at least one question to the at least one applicant
related to such at least one fire-incident management skill.
[0038] And, it provides such a computer system wherein such
question-presenter computer interface means comprises
multiple-choice question computer interface means for providing at
least one multiple-choice question to the at least one applicant
related to such at least one fire-incident management skill.
[0039] Further, it provides such a computer system wherein such
question-presenter computer interface means comprises
select-all-that-apply question computer interface means for
providing at least one select-all-that-apply question to the at
least one applicant related to such at least one fire-incident
management skill. Even further, it provides such a computer system
wherein such question-presenter computer interface means comprises
response-submission computer interface means for allowing
submission of at least one response from the at least one applicant
related to such at least one question. Even further, it provides
such a system wherein such question-presenter computer interface
means comprises correction-feedback-generator computer processor
means for generating at least one correction feedback on such at
least one response submitted by the at least one applicant related
to such at least one question.
[0040] Even further, it provides such a system wherein such
correction-feedback-generator computer processor means comprises
indicator-generator computer processor means for generating at
least one indicator of such at least one correction feedback of
such at least one response. Even further, it provides such a system
wherein such management-mentoring computer interface means
comprises question-mentoring computer interface means for providing
question mentoring to the at least one applicant relating to such
at least one question. Even further, it provides such a system
further comprising quiz-presenter computer interface means for
presenting at least one quiz to the at least one applicant at the
end of such at least one skill training segment.
[0041] Even further, it provides such a system wherein such
quiz-presenter computer interface means comprises
quiz-response-submission computer interface means for allowing
submission of at least one quiz response provided on such at least
one quiz. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such
quiz-computer interface means comprises quiz-feedback computer
processor means for providing at least one quiz-correction feedback
on such at least one quiz response submitted by the at least one
applicant. Even further, it provides such a system further
comprising score-calculator computer processor means for
calculating at least one score of at least one correct percentage
of such at least one quiz response submitted by the at least one
applicant.
[0042] Even further, it provides such a computer system wherein
completion of such at least one skill-training segment requires at
least one minimum of such at least one correct percentage. Even
further, it provides such a computer system further comprising:
completion-record storer computer processor means for storing at
least one record indicating completion by the at least one
applicant of all of such at least one skill training segments;
completion-record retriever computer interface means for providing
retrieval of such at least one record indicating completion of all
of such at least one skill training segments by the at least one
applicant by at least one certification simulation lab provider.
Even further, it provides such a computer system wherein such
virtual-immersion computer processor means comprises media-streamer
computer processor means for streaming media over the at least one
client-server architecture.
[0043] Even further, it provides such a computer system wherein
such media-streamer computer processor means streams at least one
video stream. Even further, it provides such a computer system
wherein such media-streamer computer processor means streams at
least one simulation video stream. Even further, it provides such a
computer system wherein such media-streamer computer processor
means streams at least one audio stream. Even further, it provides
such a computer system wherein such media-streamer computer
processor means streams at least one radio-transmission-simulation
audio stream. Even further, it provides such a computer system
wherein such management-mentor computer processor means comprises
mentor media streamer computer processor means for streaming at
least one mentoring media.
[0044] Even further, it provides such a computer system wherein
such computer system provides improved training preceding
real-world fire-incident decision-making competency evaluation.
Even further, it provides such a computer system further comprising
text-computer display means for displaying at least one textual
content related to training the at least one applicant in at least
one fire incident management skill. Even further, it provides such
a computer system further comprising image-computer interface means
for displaying at least one image representing at least one fire
incident situation.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0045] FIG. 1 shows a diagrammatic view, illustrating an Incident
Commander Training and Certification Program of the Hazard-Zone
Incident Command Training and Certification Systems, according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0046] FIG. 2 shows a diagrammatic view, illustrating connectivity
among entities involved in the Incident Commander Training and
Certification Program, according to the preferred embodiment of
FIG. 1.
[0047] FIG. 3 shows a business flow chart view, illustrating the
interchange of compensation, education, certification, and
information between entities involved in the Incident Commander
Training and Certification Program, according to the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 2.
[0048] FIG. 4 shows a diagrammatic view, illustrating the
navigation path followed by a User through the Online Incident
Commander Training Course of the Incident Commander Training and
Certification Program, according to the preferred embodiment of
FIG. 1.
[0049] FIG. 5 shows a diagrammatic view, illustrating the
navigation path followed by a Trainer User through the Online
Incident Commander Training Course as part of the Incident
Commander Train-the-Trainer Program of the Hazard-Zone Incident
Command Training and Certification Systems, according to another
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 6 shows a business flow chart view, illustrating the
interchange of compensation, education, certification, and
information between entities involved in the Incident Commander
Train-the-Trainer Program, according to the preferred embodiment of
FIG. 5.
[0051] FIG. 7 shows a screenshot view, illustrating the types of
web frames viewable on WebPages of the Online Incident Commander
Training Course, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG.
1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODES AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF
THE INVENTION
[0052] FIG. 1 shows a diagrammatic view, illustrating Incident
Commander Training and Certification Program 100 of the Hazard-Zone
Incident Command Training and Certification Systems 99, according
to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Hazard-Zone
Incident Command Training and Certification Systems 99 preferably
comprises Incident Commander Training and Certification Program
100. Incident Commander Training and Certification Program 100
preferably comprises a program preferably designed to preferably
train and preferably certify Users 200 to preferably serve at least
in a role of Incident Commander. An Incident Commander is a person
who takes responsibility for decision-making and management
operations as part of an emergency response at incidents that
contain a hazard zone. A hazard zone is defined as any work area
which contains a hazard that may result in injury or death,
particularly to responders. Hazard zones may comprise, for example,
burning structures, hazardous material incidents, roadways with
active traffic, natural disaster sites, or other emergency response
scenes. Trained persons serving the role of Incident Commander
assume command and manage hazard-zone operations. As Incident
Commander, a person preferably should possess the ability to
evaluate an incident scene containing a hazard zone, to effectively
communicate and to manage resource deployment, and to develop an
Incident Action Plan. As part of training Users 200 for the role of
Incident Commander, Incident Commander Training and Certification
Program 100 preferably teaches Users 200 at least one set of skills
required to serve as Incident Commander in incidents containing a
hazard zone. Incident Commander Training and Certification Program
100 preferably is focused on preparing Users 200 to serve as
Incident Commanders in hazard zone situations preferably comprising
fire-incidents involving burning structures.
[0053] Users 200 of Incident Commander Training and Certification
Program 100 preferably comprise fire department personnel seeking
to serve the role of Incident Commander. Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as program design preference, user preferences, cost,
changing needs for emergency personnel, etc., other users such as,
for example, law enforcement personnel, military personnel,
hospital staff, emergency response volunteers, members of emergency
response organizations, other emergency support personnel, etc.,
may suffice.
[0054] Incident Commander Training and Certification Program 100
preferably comprises at least forty hours of online command
training preferably combined with a certification simulation
program (see further details below). In addition, since Incident
Commander Training and Certification Program 100 is a certification
program, Users 200 who have completed the program preferably are
required to participate in yearly continuing education and
preferably are required to undergo re-certification at least every
three years. Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary
skill in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as program design
preference, user preferences, cost, changing training and
certification requirements, etc., other training and certification
arrangements such as, for example, more required hours of study,
fewer required hours of study, different continuing education
requirements, other recertification requirements, etc., may
suffice.
[0055] Incident Commander Training and Certification Program 100
preferably comprises at least one Online Incident Commander
Training Course 101 which preferably comprises at least one online
training segment. Online Incident Commander Training Course 101
preferably is hosted by Server Environment 102 (see FIG. 2).
Incident Commander Training and Certification Program 100
preferably further comprises at least one Certification Simulation
195 which preferably comprises a three day simulation lab, as shown
(see further details below). Certification Simulation 195
preferably comprises at least one real-world training lab in which
Users 200 preferably attend live seminars and preferably engage in
hands-on training in order to preferably apply and preferably
further enhance skills learned during Online Incident Commander
Training Course 101 (this arrangement at least herein embodying
wherein such computer system provides improved training preceding
real-world fire-incident decision-making competency evaluation).
Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as design preference, user preferences,
cost, future technologies, etc., other training arrangements such
as, for example, online simulation labs, virtual simulation labs,
entirely seminar-based simulation labs, entirely online training
programs, etc., may suffice.
[0056] Online Incident Commander Training Course 101 preferably
comprises at least nine Training Modules 105, as shown in FIG. 1,
eight of which preferably correspond to eight preferred fire
command functions performed by an Incident Commander (this
arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one
skill-training sequence provides training to the at least one
applicant in at least eight of such at least one fire-incident
management skills). Each of the eight fire command functions
preferably correspond to at least one commanding skill or job
function performed by an Incident Commander. Training Modules 105
preferably comprise at least one Introductory Module 110, at least
one Assumption of Command Module 120, at least one Situation
Evaluation Module 130, at least one Communications Module 140, at
least one Deployment Management Module 150, at least one Develop
Incident Action Plan Module 160, at least one Incident Organization
Module 170, at least one Review Incident Action Plan Module 180,
and at least one Terminate Command Module 190, as shown in FIG. 1.
Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as program design preference, user
preferences, marketing preferences, cost, changing training and
certification requirements, etc., other training module
arrangements such as, for example, incorporation of additional
training modules with additional content, combining material into
fewer training modules, more or fewer training modules, etc., may
suffice.
[0057] Each Training Module 105 preferably comprises a series of
WebPages 700 (see FIG. 7), preferably between about forty to about
two hundred WebPages 700. Upon reading this specification, those
with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as program
design preference, user preferences, cost, changing training and
certification requirements, etc., other arrangements such as, for
example, fewer WebPages per training module, more WebPages per
training module, etc., may suffice.
[0058] Training Modules 105 of Online Incident Commander Training
Course 101 preferably comprises media content preferably designed
to simulate structure fire hazards or other hazard zone situations
in order to train Users 200 in at least one fire command function
(see further details below). This arrangement at least embodies
herein virtual-immersion computer interface means for providing
virtual immersion to the at least one applicant in at least one
fire-incident management situation; and, this arrangement at least
embodies herein at least one virtual-immersion computer interface
structured and arranged to provide virtual immersion to the at
least one applicant in at least one fire-incident management
situation; and, this arrangement at least embodies herein providing
virtual-immersion to the at least one applicant in at least one
fire-incident management situation.
[0059] Each Training Module 105 preferably provides Educational
Information 230, preferably related to one of the preferably eight
fire command functions, and preferably permits User 200 to input
Responses 235, as shown in FIG. 1. Responses 235 preferably
comprise answers submitted to multiple-choice questions, "select
all that apply" questions, and quiz questions (see details
below).
[0060] Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill
in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as design preference, user
preferences, marketing preferences, cost, structural requirements,
available materials, technological advances, etc., other Response
235 arrangements such as, for example, written testing, essay
responses, verbal response, image response, etc., may suffice.
[0061] Online Incident Commander Training Course 101 preferably
requires User 200 to preferably view and preferably complete each
Training Module 105 in its entirety before at least one subsequent
Training Module 105 is "unlocked" according to Unlocking Step 225,
as shown. The above arrangement preferably ensures that User 200
receives training in preferably eight fire command functions
preferably sequentially in a preferably pre-determined sequence.
This arrangement at least embodies herein sequential
skill-training-navigator computer interface means for providing
sequential skill-navigation of a plurality of at least one
skill-training segments to develop a plurality of such at least one
fire-incident management skills in at least one skill sequence;
and, this arrangement at least embodies herein at least one
sequential skill-training-navigator computer interface structured
and arranged to provide at least one sequential skill-navigation of
at least one skill-training sequence of a plurality of at least one
skill-training segments to develop a plurality of such at least one
fire-incident management skills; and, this arrangement at least
herein embodies providing sequential skill-training navigation of a
plurality of at least one skill-training segments to develop a
plurality of such at least one fire-incident management skills in
at least one skill sequence.
[0062] Each Training Module 105 preferably ends with at least one
Quiz Section 580 (see FIG. 4 and FIG. 5). Quiz Section 580
preferably comprises the only graded and scored section of Online
Incident Commander Training Course 101. Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as program design preference, user preferences, changing
training and certification requirements, etc., other testing
arrangements such as, for example, grading of all questions
throughout the online course, grading of a single test at the end
of the entire online course, grading of a single test at the end of
the entire training program, incorporation of more graded quiz
sections, etc., may suffice.
[0063] Users 200 preferably are required to complete each Quiz
Section 580 (see FIG. 4 and FIG. 5) before advancing to the next
Training Module 105, according to Unlocking Step 225, as shown.
Access to completed Training Modules 105 by Users 200 preferably
expires thirty days after completion (this arrangement at least
herein embodying wherein such navigation-regulator computer
processor means comprises access revoker computer processor means
for revoking access to such at least one skill-training segment
after at least one expiration period beginning at completion of
such at least one skill-training segment; and, this arrangement at
least herein embodying wherein such at least one
navigation-regulator computer processor comprises at least one
access-revoker computer processor structured and arranged to revoke
access to such at least one skill-training segment after at least
one expiration period beginning at completion of such at least one
skill-training segment). Upon reading this specification, those
with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as program
design preference, user preferences, cost, changing training and
certification requirements, etc., other access expiration
arrangements, such as, for example, unlimited access, shorter term
expiration dates, longer term expiration dates, etc., may
suffice.
[0064] Upon successful completion of all Training Modules 105 of
Online Incident Commander Training Course 101, Users 200 preferably
will be permitted to participate in Certification Simulation 195,
as shown. Certification Simulation 195 preferably comprises a three
day practical training lab in which Users 200 preferably will
participate in both hands-on training and attend seminars. Upon
reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art
will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as program design preference, user
preferences, cost, changing training and certification
requirements, future technologies, etc., other simulation lab
arrangements, such as, for example, entirely online simulation
labs, virtual simulation labs, simulation software programs, etc.,
may suffice.
[0065] Upon successful completion of Certification Simulation 195,
Users 200 preferably receive Incident Commander Certification 240,
as shown. Incident Commander Certification 240 preferably entitles
Users 200 to serve the role of Incident Commander.
[0066] As shown in FIG. 1, User 200 preferably is permitted access
to Training Modules 105 after preferably performing Registration
Step 220, as shown. Registration Step 220 preferably comprises
permitting user input of User Identification Information 205 and
permitting Users 200 to preferably establish at least one
username-password combination 222 (see FIG. 4), as shown.
Registration Step 220 preferably is performed at Registration Page
115, as shown. In addition, Users 200 preferably provide User
Compensation 210 during Registration Step 220, as shown. User
Identification Information 205 preferably comprises name,
username-password combination, email address, fire department,
rank, and years of experience. Upon reading this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as program
design preference, user preferences, cost, changing training and
certification requirements, etc., other identification information,
such as, for example, badge number, identification number, driver's
license number, home address, other professional affiliation
specifications, volunteer organization, etc., may suffice.
[0067] Upon successful completion of Registration Step 220,
Introductory Module 110 preferably is "unlocked" for viewing
according to Unlocking Step 225, permitting User 200 to view and
navigate through Introductory Module 110, as shown. Introductory
Module 110 preferably provides an overview describing the role and
attributes of an effective Incident Commander, and preferably
provides an overview of preferably at least eight standard fire
command functions performed by an Incident Commander at an
emergency response scene.
[0068] Upon completion of Introductory Module 110, User 200
preferably gains access to Assumption of Command Module 120
according to Unlocking Step 225, as shown, preferably allowing User
200 to navigate through a series of WebPages 700 (see FIG. 7)
comprising Assumption of Command Module 120. While participating in
Assumption of Command Module 120, User 200 preferably is at least
mentored on how to assume and quickly establish command, as well as
how to manage ongoing command in emergency response situations.
[0069] Upon completion of Assumption of Command Module 120 by User
200, User 200 preferably gains access to Situation Evaluation
Module 130 according to Unlocking Step 225, as shown, preferably
allowing User 200 to navigate through a series of WebPages 700
comprising Situation Evaluation Module 130. While participating in
Situation Evaluation Module 130, User 200 preferably is at least
mentored on how to properly evaluate incident conditions using
vision, maps, pre-plans, reference materials, and time
measuring.
[0070] Upon completion of Situation Evaluation Module 130 by User
200, User 200 preferably gains access to Communications Module 140
according to Unlocking Step 225, as shown, preferably allowing User
200 to navigate through a series of WebPages 700 comprising
Communications Module 140. While participating in Communications
Module 140, User 200 preferably is at least mentored on standard
operating procedures for effective communication such as proper use
of radio communications, critical listening, and coordinating
timely progress reports.
[0071] Upon completion of Communications Module 140 by User 200,
User 200 preferably gains access to Deployment Management Module
150 according to Unlocking Step 225, as shown, preferably allowing
User 200 to navigate through a series of WebPages 700 comprising
Deployment Management Module 150. While participating in Deployment
Management Module 150, User 200 preferably is at least mentored on
how to dispatch resources, how to maintain accountability of
on-scene resources, and how to manage the work/rest cycle of all
resources employed in the hazard zone site.
[0072] Upon completion of Deployment Management Module 150 by User
200, User 200 preferably gains access to Develop Incident Accident
Plan Module 160 according to Unlocking Step 225, as shown,
preferably allowing User 200 to navigate through a series of
WebPages 700 comprising Develop Incident Action Plan Module 160.
While participating in Develop Incident Action Plan Module 160,
User 200 preferably is at least mentored on how to develop an
incident action plan strategy and how to manage and control
operations within the incident action plan strategy.
[0073] Upon completion of Develop Incident Action Plan Module 160
by User 200, User 200 preferably gains access to Incident
Organization Module 170 according to Unlocking Step 225, as shown,
preferably allowing User 200 to navigate through a series of
WebPages 700 comprising Incident Organization Module 170. While
participating in Incident Organization Module 170, User 200
preferably is at least mentored on how to develop incident
organization how to keep resources connected, how to effectively
delegate control of management, and how to build an effective
command team.
[0074] Upon completion of Incident Organization Module 170 by User
200, User 200 preferably gains access to Review Incident Action
Plan Module 180 according to Unlocking Step 225, as shown,
preferably allowing User 200 to navigate through a series of
WebPages 700 comprising Incident Action Plan Module 180. While
participating in Incident Action Plan Module 180, User 200
preferably is at least mentored on how to carry out fire command
functions in standard order, how to receive, confirm and evaluate
conditions, and how to use incident action plan strategy as a
checklist for revisions.
[0075] Upon successful completion of Review Incident Action Plan
Module 180 by User 200, User 200 preferably gains access to
Terminate Command Module 190 according to Unlocking Step 225, as
shown, preferably allowing User 200 to navigate through a series of
WebPages 700 preferably comprising Terminate Command Module 190.
While participating in Terminate Command Module 190, User 200
preferably is at least mentored on how to estimate the length of
command required, how to consider time and resources needed for
completion of each tactical priority, how to provide
rehabilitation, rotation, and relief for command staff, how to
reduce the command structure at ending stages of the incident, and
how to provide post-incident review with hazard zone workers.
[0076] Upon successful completion of Terminate Command Module 190,
User 200 preferably is permitted to participate in Certification
Simulation 195 according to Unlocking Step 225, as shown.
Certification Simulation 195 preferably comprises a three-day
simulation lab in which Users 200 preferably attend seminars and
participate in hands-on training. Upon reading this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as program
design preference, user preferences, cost, changing training and
certification requirements, etc., other simulation lab
requirements, such as, for example, more required days, fewer
required days, etc., may suffice.
[0077] Upon successful completion of Online Incident Commander
Training Course 101 and Certification Simulation 195, User 200
preferably obtains at least one Incident Commander Certification
240, as shown in FIG. 1.
[0078] According to another preferred embodiment of the present
invention, Incident Commander Training and Certification Program
100 preferably comprises Incident Commander Train-the-Trainer
Program 600 (see FIG. 5). Incident Commander Train-the-Trainer
Program 600 preferably comprises a curriculum tailored for Trainer
Users 250 (see FIG. 5). Trainer Users 250 preferably comprise
individuals who are senior members of a fire department's
operations, training, and safety divisions. Incident Commander
Train-the-Trainer Program 600 preferably is designed to train and
certify Trainer Users 250 to preferably train and preferably
certify other members of their home department or community to
serve as Incident Commanders according to the curriculum provided
by Incident Commander Training and Certification Program 100.
Incident Commander Train-the-Trainer Program 100 preferably allows
Trainer Users 250 to take Incident Commander Training and
Certification Program 100 back to their home departments and
preferably train and certify other members of their department or
community. A major objective of Incident Commander
Train-the-Trainer Program 600 preferably is to allow individuals to
customize the Incident Commander Training and Certification Program
100 according to the needs of their respective local departments,
preferably at a fraction of the cost it would take a fire
department to produce and develop a training program alone. Factors
which may influence varying needs of different departments or
regions include local topography, varying resource levels, and
varying standard operating procedures.
[0079] To be eligible for Incident Commander Train-the-Trainer
Program 600, Trainer Users 250 preferably are required to have at
least five years fire service experience. Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as program design preference, user preferences, cost,
changing needs, etc., other experience levels, such as, for
example, more years of experience, fewer years of experience, etc.,
may suffice.
[0080] Positions preferably held by Trainer Users 250 preferably
comprise Department Training Officer, Response Chief, Ranking
Operations Chief, Shift Commander, or District Chief. Upon reading
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as program design preference, user preferences, cost,
changing needs, etc., other positions, such as, for example,
Department Lieutenant, Department Captain, Department Senior
Captain, Department Battalion Chief, other emergency response team
leaders, etc., may suffice.
[0081] Participation by Trainer Users 250 in Incident Commander
Train-the-Trainer Program 600 preferably first requires Trainer
Users 250 to successfully complete Online Incident Commander
Training Course 101 (see FIG. 5). Successful completion of Online
Incident Commander Training Course 101 preferably permits Trainer
Users 250 to participate in Trainer Certification Simulation 605
(see FIG. 5). Trainer Certification Simulation 605 preferably
comprises six consecutive eight-hour days of seminar-based and
hands-on training in which Trainer Users 250 preferably learn
teaching and evaluation criteria necessary to preferably train and
preferably certify other students to preferably serve the role of
Incident Commander. Trainer Certification Simulation 605 preferably
also comprises a three-day curriculum of Certification Simulation
195 (see FIG. 4). Upon reading this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as program
design preference, user preferences, cost, changing training and
certification requirements, future technologies, etc., other
simulation training arrangements, such as, for example, entirely
online simulation training, virtual simulation training,
seminar-based simulation training, software based simulation
training, etc., may suffice.
[0082] Upon completion of Trainer Certification Simulation 605,
Trainer Users 250 preferably receive Trainer Certification 640 (see
FIG. 5) preferably authorizing Trainer Users 250 to preferably
train and preferably certify other Students 650 (see FIG. 2) to
serve the role of Incident Commander (see below).
[0083] According to another preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the curriculum of Incident Commander Train-the-Trainer
Program 600 preferably requires Trainer Users 250 to preferably
complete both Online Incident Commander Training Course 101 and a
three day Certification Simulation 195 (see FIG. 1) before
participating in a four day certification simulation program
specifically tailored for Trainer Users 250.
[0084] FIG. 2 shows a diagrammatic view, illustrating connectivity
among entities involved in Incident Commander Training and
Certification Program 100, according to the preferred embodiment of
FIG. 1. Server Environment 102, as shown in FIG. 2, preferably
provides services necessary to accomplish the objectives of Online
Incident Commander Training Course 101. Server Environment 102
preferably communicates with Users 200, Trainer Users 250, and
Program Provider 270 through Internet 390, as shown. Program
Provider 270 preferably represents at least one business
organization responsible for developing, marketing, and providing
services related to Incident Commander Training and Certification
Program 100. Program Provider 270 preferably further comprises all
personnel serving administrative functions related to services
provided by Incident Commander Training and Certification Program
100.
[0085] It is noted here that all of the connectivity arrangements
between User 200 and Server Environment 102 described in the
following paragraphs also describe the connectivity arrangements
between Trainer User 250 and Server Environment 102.
[0086] Server Environment 102 preferably comprises at least one
Communications Router 310, at least one Firewall 315, at least one
Content Regulation Server 320, at least one Administration Server
325, at least one Merchant Account Server 330, at least one File
Server 335, at least one User-Profile Server 340, at least one
Database Server 345, at least one Testing Server 350, at least one
Authentication Rights Server 355, at least one User Interface
Server 360, and at least one Media Server 365, as shown in FIG.
2.
[0087] Communications Router 310 preferably provides internal
communication connectivity between servers of Server Environment
102, as shown in FIG. 2. Firewall 315 preferably provides external
communication between Server Environment 102 and Internet 390, and
thereby between Server Environment 102 and Users 200, Trainer Users
250, and Program Provider 270, as shown. Firewall 315 preferably
protects Server Environment 102 from external intrusions.
[0088] User-Profile Server 340 preferably maintains User-Profile
Information 342, as shown. User-Profile Information 342 preferably
corresponds to user-specific information preferably related to User
200, alternately preferably to Trainer User 250. User-Profile
Information 342 preferably comprises at least one user-specific
username-password combination 222 (see FIG. 4), preferably provided
by User 200 to preferably authenticate User 200 access to Server
Environment 102. Username-password combination 222 preferably is
established during Registration Step 220, as shown in FIG. 1. Once
authenticated, User 200 preferably receives permissions 357 to
access Server Environment 102 from Authentication Rights Server
355, as shown.
[0089] In addition, User-Profile Information 342, maintained by
User-Profile Server 340, preferably comprises user-specific
progress status information, preferably comprising user-specific
Quiz Scores 410 (see FIG. 3). User-specific progress status
information preferably specifies which Training Modules 105 have
been successfully completed by User 200, preferably at the point of
User Login Step 505 (see FIG. 4 and FIG. 5). This above described
arrangement preferably allows Users 200 to preferably resume
navigation through Online Incident Commander Training Course 101,
according to the steps illustrated in FIG. 1, after a logging out
of the system for some time. This arrangement at least embodies
herein progress-storer computer processor means for storing
progress of the at least one applicant within each such at least
one skill-training segment to permit non-continuous training; and,
this arrangement at least embodies herein at least one
progress-storer computer processor structured and arranged to store
progress of the at least one applicant within each such at least
one skill-training segment to permit non-continuous training; and,
this arrangement at least embodies herein storing progress of the
at least one applicant within each such at least one skill-training
segment to permit non-continuous training.
[0090] In addition, User-Profile Server 340 preferably stores
Online Portion Certification 232 (See FIG. 4) in correlation with
User-Profile Information 342 when User 200 has successfully
completed Online Incident Commander Training Course 101. This
arrangement at least embodies herein completion-record storer
computer processor means for storing at least one record indicating
completion by the at least one applicant of all of such at least
one skill training segments; and, this arrangement at least
embodies herein at least one completion-record storer computer
processor structured and arranged to store at least one record
indicating completion by the at least one applicant of all of such
at least one skill-training segments; and this arrangement at least
embodies herein storing at least one record indicating completion
by the at least one applicant of all of such at least one skill
training segments.
[0091] In addition, User-Profile Information 342 preferably
comprises the date which User 200 completed each Training Module
105, according to Unlocking Step 225, in order to preferably deny
access to a particular Training Module 105 thirty days after
completion by User 200. In addition, User-Profile Information 342,
maintained by User-Profile Server 340, preferably further comprises
at least one user-specific registration date, preferably
corresponding to the date on which Registration Step 220 (see FIG.
1) was completed. If User 200 does not complete Online Incident
Commander Training Course 101 within one-year from such
user-specific registration date, Permissions 357 to access Server
Environment 102 preferably will be denied (this arrangement at
least herein embodying wherein such navigation-regulator computer
processor means comprises completion-limiter computer processor
means for limiting completion of such at least one skill-training
segment to at least one completion-time limit; and, this
arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one
navigation-regulator computer processor comprises at least one
completion-limiter computer processor structured and arranged to
limit completion of such at least one skill-training segment to at
least one completion time limit).
[0092] User-Profile Information 342 preferably further comprises
user-specific payment information related to User Compensation 210,
which preferably specifies whether or not User 200 has provided
adequate funds to participate in Online Incident Commander Training
Course 101.
[0093] Preferably, user-specific progress status information,
user-specific dates in which each Training Module 105 was
completed, user-specific registration dates, and user-specific
payment information preferably are directly correlated with
user-specific username-password combination 222 by User-Profile
Server 340. This arrangement preferably notifies Server Environment
102 which content is appropriate to display to User 200 upon entry
of username-password combination 222 at the point of User Login
Step 505 (see FIG. 4). For example, if User 200 attempts to access
Server Environment 102 by logging into the system more than
one-year after their registration date, such information preferably
correlated with username-password combination 222, preferably is
communicated to Authentication Server 355 in order to deny
permissions 357 to access Server Environment 102. As a further
example, if User 200 performs User Login Step 505 more than thirty
days after completing a particular Training Module 105,
User-Profile Server 340 preferably communicates User-Profile
Information 342 to Content Regulation Server 320 (see below) in
order to preferably deny access to the completed Training Module
105.
[0094] Merchant Account Server 330 preferably processes payments
332 related to User Compensation 210 (see FIG. 1), provided by User
200 to access the services provided by Server Environment 102.
Merchant Account Server 330 preferably stores payment records
related to User Compensation 210 provided by User 200.
[0095] Content Regulation Server 320 preferably regulates content
available for viewing by Users 200 according to User-Profile
Information 342. Content Regulation Server 320 (at least embodying
herein skill-navigation regulator computer processor means for
regulating navigation by the at least one applicant to such
sequential navigation of such plurality of such at least one skill
training segments; and, at least embodying herein at least one
skill-navigation regulator computer processor structured and
arranged to regulate navigation by the at least one applicant in
such at least one sequential skill-navigation of such plurality of
such at least one skill training segments; and, at least embodying
herein regulating navigation by the at least one applicant to such
sequential skill-navigation of such plurality of such at least one
skill-training segments) preferably is responsible for controlling
Unlocking Step 225 to preferably provide User 200 access at least
one subsequent Training Modules 105 following completion of at
least one prior Training Module 105 (see FIG. 1). Content
Regulation Server 320 preferably is further responsible for
controlling Page Advancement Step 530 and Page Advancement Step 532
to provide User 200 access to at least one subsequent WebPage 700
following completion of at least one prior WebPage 700 within at
least one Training Module 105 (see FIG. 4 and FIG. 5).
[0096] Content Regulation Server 320 preferably communicates with
User-Profile Server 340 to preferably obtain user-specific progress
status information, preferably including user-specific Quiz Scores
410, in order to preferably determine which Training Modules 105 to
make accessible to User 200, preferably at the stage of User Login
Step 505. When User 200 successfully completes at least one
Training Module 105, User-Profile Information 342 preferably is
updated and Content Regulation Server 320 preferably "unlocks" at
least one subsequent according to Unlocking Step 225 (at least
herein embodying wherein navigation-regulator computer processor
means comprises access-grantor computer processor means for
granting access to at least one subsequent such at least one
skill-training segment following completion of at least one prior
such at least one skill-training segment within such at least one
sequence; and, at least herein embodying wherein such at least one
navigation-regulator computer processor comprises at least one
access-grantor computer processor structured and arranged to grant
access to at least one subsequent such at least one skill-training
segment following completion of at least one prior such at least
one skill-training segment within such at least one sequence; and,
at least herein embodying wherein such step of regulating
navigation further comprises the step of granting access to at
least one subsequent such at least one skill-training segment
following completion of at least one prior such at least one
skill-training segment within such at least one sequence), as shown
in FIG. 1.
[0097] User-Interface Server 360 preferably comprises at least one
User Interface 370, as shown. User Interface 370 preferably
provides an interface for Users 200 (or Trainer Users 250) to
access Online Incident Commander Training Course 101. Content
displayed at User Interface 370 preferably is controlled by Content
Regulation Server 320, as discussed above. User Interface 370
preferably permits User 200 to participate in Online Incident
Commander Training Course 101 and preferably alter User Profile
Information 342. User 200 preferably accesses User Interface 370
preferably using at least one Internet-Enabled Computerized Device
395, as shown. Internet-Enabled Computerized Device 395 preferably
comprises at least one personal computer (PC), alternately
preferably at least one internet enabled phone, alternately
preferably at least one mobile internet-enabled device, alternately
preferably at least one hand-held internet-enable device.
[0098] User-Interface Server 360 preferably further comprises at
least one Trainer Support Interface 385 preferably only accessible
by Trainer Users 250 who have successfully completed Incident
Commander Train-the-Trainer Program 600 (see below). Trainer
Support Interface 385 preferably comprises an interface through
which Trainer User 250 may download Additional Training Tools 645
(see FIG. 6) after successful completion of Incident Commander
Train-the-Trainer Program 600 (see further details below). Trainer
User 250 preferably accesses Trainer Support Interface 385
preferably using at least one Internet-Enable Computerized Device
395, as shown. Internet-Enabled Computerized Device 395 preferably
comprises at least one personal computer (PC), alternately
preferably at least one internet enabled phone, alternately
preferably at least one mobile internet-enabled device, alternately
preferably at least one hand-held internet-enable device.
[0099] Database Server 345 preferably comprises at least one
Database 347, as shown. Database 347 preferably stores information
relating to course content including information, questions,
answers, and graphical data preferably used as teaching tools in
Online Incident Commander Training Course 101. In addition,
Database 347 preferably stores questions and answers related to
multiple choice questions, "select all that apply" questions, and
quiz questions (see below). Database Server 345 preferably
communicates with User Interface Server 360 in order to preferably
feed content to User 200 during each Training Module 105. Such
content preferably is displayed to User 200 at User Interface 370,
as shown.
[0100] Testing Server 350 preferably generates Tests 352, as shown.
Tests 352 preferably are displayed to User 200 at User Interface
370, as shown. Tests 352 preferably comprise multiple choice
questions, "select all that apply" questions, and quiz questions
(see below). Testing Server 350 preferably interacts with Database
Server 345 to preferably obtain questions for Tests 352 for display
at User Interface 370. In addition, Testing Server 350 (at least
embodying herein score-calculator computer processor means for
calculating at least one score of at least one correct percentage
of such at least one quiz response submitted by the at least one
applicant; and at least embodying herein at least one
score-calculator computer processor structured and arranged to
calculate at least one score of at least one correct percentage of
such at least one quiz response submitted by the at least one
applicant) preferably scores Quiz Sections 580 (see FIG. 4 and FIG.
5) at the end of each Training Module 105 according to the
percentage of correct Responses 235 submitted on Quiz Section 580.
Testing Server 350 preferably calculates the correct percentage of
submitted Responses 235 on Quiz Section 580 according to answers
stored in Database Server 345 (this arrangement at least embodying
herein calculating at least one correct percentage of such at least
one quiz response submitted by the at least one applicant). In
addition, Testing Server 350 preferably communicates user-specific
Quiz Scores 410 (see FIG. 3) to User Profile Server 340 to update
User-Profile Information 342. Furthermore, Testing Server 350
preferably communicates user-specific Quiz Scores 410 to Content
Regulation Server 320 to signal Content Regulation Server 320 to
"unlock" for viewing the next Training Module 105, according to
Unlocking Step 225, upon successful completion of each Quiz Section
580 (see FIG. 4 and FIG. 5) by User 200.
[0101] Media Server 365 (at least herein embodying wherein such
virtual-immersion computer processor means comprises media-streamer
computer processor means for streaming media over the at least one
client-server architecture; and, at least herein embodying wherein
such at least one virtual-immersion computer processor comprises at
least one media-streamer computer processor structured and arranged
to stream media over the at least one client-server architecture)
preferably stores and preferably streams Media Content 367 to User
Interface Server 360 to preferably be displayed to User 200 at User
Interface 370, as shown. Media Content 367 preferably comprises
video segments and audio files preferably used to generate
structure fire simulations, other hazard zone simulations,
radio-transmission simulations, and radio report simulations useful
in training User 200 in at least one fire command function. This
arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such virtual-immersion
computer interface means comprises virtual-immersion computer
processor means for generating such at least one fire-incident
management situation in such virtual immersion computer interface
means; and, this arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such
at least one virtual-immersion computer interface comprises at
least one virtual-immersion computer processor structured and
arranged to generate such at least one fire-incident management
situation in such at least one virtual-immersion computer
interface; and, this arrangement at least herein embodies wherein
such step of providing virtual immersion comprises the step of
computer-generating such at least one fire-incident management
situation in at least one virtual-immersion computer interface.
[0102] Media Content 367, streamed by Media Server 365, preferably
further comprises "Chief's Input" videos. "Chief's Input" videos
preferably comprise talking head videos in which a fire chief
preferably verbally coaches User 200 through presented material or
questions (see further details below). This arrangement at least
herein embodies wherein such management-mentor computer interface
means comprises management-mentor computer processor means for
generating mentoring in such management-mentor computer interface
means; and, this arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such
at least one management-mentor computer interface comprises at
least one management-mentor computer processor structured and
arranged to generate mentoring in such at least one
management-mentor computer interface; and, this arrangement at
least herein embodies wherein such step of providing management
mentoring comprises the step of computer-generating mentoring in at
least one management-mentor computer interface; and, this
arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such management-mentor
computer processor means comprises mentor media streamer computer
processor means for streaming at least one mentoring media; and,
this arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such at least one
management-mentor computer processor comprises at least one
mentor-media streamer computer processor structured and arranged to
stream at least one mentoring media over the at least one
client-server architecture.
[0103] In addition, Media Server 365 preferably comprises
additional media resources, such as additional video and audio
simulations, preferably available for download by Trainer Users 250
at Trainer Support Interface 385 upon completion of Incident
Commander Train-the-Trainer Program 600 (see below).
[0104] File Server 335 preferably stores Instructional Files 337
preferably available for download by Trainer Users 250 at Trainer
Support Interface 385 upon completion of Incident Commander
Train-the-Trainer Program 600. Instructional Files 337 preferably
comprise additional teaching resources, such as those comprised in
Instructor's Package 630 or Additional Training Tools 645 (see FIG.
6) which Trainer Users 250 preferably may use for training of
Students 650.
[0105] Administration Server 325 preferably comprises at least one
Administration Interface 380, as shown. Administration Interface
380 preferably provides an interface accessible by administrative
personnel affiliated with Program. Provider 270. Administration
Interface 380 preferably permits administrative personnel
affiliated with Program Provider 270 to preferably update or change
content provided by Server Environment 102. In addition,
Administration Interface 380 preferably allows administrative
personnel from Program Provider 270 to maintain proper functioning
of Server Environment 102. Furthermore, Administration Interface
380 preferably allows administrative personnel from Program
Provider 270 to access user-specific progress status information
related to at least one User 200, including which Training Modules
105 have been successfully completed and Quiz Scores 410.
Administration Interface 280 preferably permits administrative
personnel from Program Provider 270 to preferably access Online
Certification 232, preferably confirming the completion of Online
Incident Commander Training Course 101 by User 200. Administrative
personnel preferably accesses Administration Interface 380
preferably using at least one Internet-Enabled Computerized Device
395, as shown. Internet-Enabled Computerized Device 395 preferably
comprises at least one personal computer (PC), alternately
preferably at least one internet enabled phone, alternately
preferably at least one mobile internet-enabled device, alternately
preferably at least one hand-held internet-enable device.
[0106] FIG. 3 shows a business flow chart view, illustrating the
interchange of compensation, education, certification, and
information between entities involved in Incident Commander
Training and Certification Program 100, according to the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 2. Incident Commander Training and Certification
Program 100 preferably comprises interchange between User 200,
Server Environment 102, at least one Program Provider 270, and at
least one Regulatory Entity 275, as shown. Program Provider 270
preferably further comprises all personnel serving administrative
functions related to services provided by Incident Commander
Training and Certification Program 100. Regulatory Entity 275
preferably comprises a government organization preferably
responsible for accrediting programs providing Incident Commander
training and certifications.
[0107] While participating in Online Incident Commander Training
Course 101, User 200 preferably receives Educational Information
230 from Server Environment 102 as part of Online Incident
Commander Training Course 101, preferably at User Interface 370, as
shown. User Interface 370 preferably permits User 200 to submit
Responses 235 to Server Environment 102 as part of Online Incident
Commander Training Course 101, as shown. Responses 235 preferably
comprise answers to multiple choice questions, "Select all that
apply questions", and answers to quiz questions (see below). Upon
successful completion of Online Incident Commander Training Course
101, User 200 preferably is provided with at least one Online
Portion Certification 232, as shown, preferably confirming that
User 200 has successfully completed Online Incident Commander
Training Course 101.
[0108] Server Environment 102 preferably permits Program Provider
270 to access user-specific Quiz Scores 410, as shown.
Administrative personnel from Program Provider 270 preferably
access Quiz Scores 410 at Administration Interface 380, as shown.
In addition, Server Environment 102 preferably permits Program
Provider 270 to access Online Portion Certification 232 in order to
confirm successful completion of Online Incident Commander Training
Course 101 by User 200. Server Environment 102 preferably permits
administrative personnel from Program Provider 270 to preferably
access Online Portion Certification 232 at Administration Interface
380 (at least embodying herein completion-record retriever computer
interface means for providing retrieval of such at least one record
indicating completion of all of such at least one skill training
segments by the at least one applicant by at least one
certification simulation lab provider; and, at least embodying
herein at least one completion-record retriever computer interface
structured and arranged to provide retrieval of such at least one
record indicating completion of all of such at least one
skill-training segments by the at least one applicant by at least
one certification simulation lab provider; and, at least embodying
herein retrieving such at least one record indicating completion
status of all of such at least one skill training segments by the
at least one applicant, upon request by at least one certification
simulation lab provider), as shown.
[0109] Upon completion of Online Incident Commander Training Course
101, as confirmed by Online Portion Certification 232, Program
Provider 270 preferably permits User 200 to participate in
Certification Simulation 195, as shown. Program Provider 270
preferably provides Incident Commander Certification 240 to User
200 after completion of Certification Simulation 195, as shown. In
exchange for services provided Incident Commander Training and
Certification Program 100, User 200 preferably provides User
Compensation 210, preferably in the form of payments, to Program
Provider 270, as shown.
[0110] Server Environment 102 preferably receives Data Files 415
from Program Provider 270, as shown. Data Files 415 preferably
comprise new, updated, modified, or repaired content, graphical
material, or questions, and are preferably used to supply content
to Online Incident Commander Training Course 101. In addition,
Server Environment 102 preferably receives Media Content 368 from
Program Provider 270, as shown. Media Content 368 preferably
represents new, updated, modified, or repaired video segments
and/or audio files, preferably utilized to supply dynamic media
content to Online Incident Commander Training Course 101. Server
Environment 102 preferably permits administrative personnel from
Program Provider 270 to provide Data Files 415 and Media Content
368 at Administration Interface 380, as shown.
[0111] Regulatory Entity 275 preferably provides Accreditation 425
to Program Provider 270, as shown. Accreditation 425 preferably
provides Program Provider 270 with a right to offer training and
certifications to persons seeking the role of Incident
Commander.
[0112] FIG. 4 shows a diagrammatic view, illustrating the
navigation path followed by User 200 through Online Incident
Commander Training Course 101 of Incident Commander Training and
Certification Program 100, according to the preferred embodiment of
FIG. 1. User 200 preferably gains access to Online Incident
Commander Training Course 101 by preferably providing at least one
username-password combination 222 according to User Login Step 505,
as shown.
[0113] User 200 preferably chooses which Training Module 105 to
enter from at least one Main Navigation Page 500, according to step
Module Selection 510, as shown. Main Navigation Page 500 preferably
presents at least ten selection buttons, at least nine of which
preferably allow selection of Training Modules 105, as shown.
Training modules 105 which may be selected by User 200 at Main
Navigation Page 500 preferably comprise Introductory Module 110,
Assumption of Command Module 120, Situation Evaluation Module 130,
Communications Module 140, Deployment Management Module 150,
Develop Incident Action Plan Module 160, Incident Organization
Module 170, Review Incident Action Plan Module 180, and Terminate
Command Module 190, as shown. The remaining selection button
preferably comprises at least one Certification Selection 192 which
preferably is "unlocked" after User 200 has successfully completed
all Training Modules 105, preferably allowing User 200 to access
Online Portion Certification 232, as shown (see FIG. 3). Upon
reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art
will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as program design preference, user
preferences, cost, changing training and certification
requirements, etc., other selection button arrangements, such as,
for example, fewer selection buttons, more selection buttons, etc.,
may suffice.
[0114] Preferably, before User 200 has successfully completed any
Training Modules 105, Introductory Module 110 preferably will be
the only module which is "unlocked" for viewing by User 200 and may
be selected by User 200 at Main Navigation Page 500. Alternatively,
if User 200 returns to Server Environment 102 after a break in
studying, all completed Training Modules 105 and at least one
subsequent Training Module 105 following the last completed module
preferably will be "unlocked" and available for selection by User
200 at Main Navigation Page 500.
[0115] Upon module selection according to step Module Selection
510, User 200 preferably is redirected to the first WebPage 700 of
a series of WebPages 700 encompassing a selected Training Module
105. The series of WebPages 700 encompassing a selected Training
Module 105 preferably immerses User 200 through a sequential series
of fire simulation situations for preferably training User 200 in
at least one fire command function (this arrangement at least
embodying herein sequential situation-navigator computer interface
means for providing sequential situation-navigation of a plurality
of such at least one fire-incident management situations to develop
such at least one fire-incident management skill; and, this
arrangement at least embodying herein at least one sequential
situation-navigator computer interface structured and arranged to
provide at least one sequential situation-navigation of at least
one situation sequence of a plurality of such at least one
fire-incident management situations to develop such at least one
fire-incident management skill; and, this arrangement at least
embodying herein providing sequential situation-navigation of a
plurality of such at least one fire-incident management situations
to develop such at least one fire-incident management skill).
[0116] As illustrated in FIG. 4, each WebPage 700 preferably must
be viewed in its entirety and any questions 522 preferably must be
answered with Responses 235 before User 200 may advance to a
subsequent WebPage 700 provided in Training Module 105 according to
Page Advancement Step 530 or Page Advancement Step 532, as shown.
The above described arrangement preferably ensures that User 200 is
exposed to a pre-determined sequence of simulation situations
related to at least one fire command function in Training Module
105. This arrangement at least embodies herein at least one
situation-navigator regulator computer processor structured and
arranged to regulate navigation by the at least one applicant of
such at least one sequential situation-navigation of such plurality
of such at least one fire-incident management situations.
[0117] Current Page 520 preferably represents the first WebPage 700
of a series of WebPages 700 comprising at least one Training Module
105, as shown. Current Page 520 preferably provides Educational
Information 230 viewable by User 200, as shown. Current Page 520
preferably may comprise text, graphics, and/or media content such
as video segments or audio segments, as shown (see below). Current
Page 520 preferably may also comprise at least one question 522 (at
least embodying herein question-presenter computer interface means
for presenting at least one question to the at least one applicant
related to such at least one fire-incident management skill; and at
least embodying herein at least one question-presenter computer
interface structured and arranged to present at least one question
to the at least one applicant related to such at least one
fire-incident management skill; and at least embodying herein
providing at least one question to the at least one applicant
related to such at least one fire-incident management skill),
requiring User 200 to preferably apply content learned on Current
Page 520. If Current Page 520 only contains text, graphics, and/or
media content, the slide preferably is satisfactorily completed
once the content has been sufficiently reviewed by User 200, and at
least one Subsequent Page 525 preferably is "unlocked" for viewing
according to Page Advancement Step 530, preferably advancing User
200 to Subsequent Page 525, as shown.
[0118] If Current Page 520 contains at least one question 522,
Current Page 520 preferably permits submission of at least one
Response 235, as shown (this arrangement at least herein embodying
wherein such question-presenter computer interface means comprises
response-submitter computer interface means for allowing submission
of at least one response from the at least one applicant related to
such at least one question; and, this arrangement at least herein
embodying wherein such at least one question-presenter computer
interface comprises at least one response-submitter computer
interface structured and arranged to allow submission of at least
one response from the at least one applicant related to such at
least one question; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying
wherein such step of providing at least one question further
comprises the step of allowing submission of at least one response
from the at least one applicant related to such at least one
question). Questions 522 provided on Current Page 520 preferably
comprise at least one multiple choice question or at least one
"select all that apply question". Upon reading this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as program
design preference, user preferences, cost, changing training and
certification requirements, future technologies, etc., other
question arrangements, such as, for example, non-multiple choice
questions, fill-in-the-blank questions, essay questions, etc., may
suffice.
[0119] Upon submission of at least one Response 235, User 200
preferably is subsequently directed to Evaluation Page 535
according to Evaluation Step 545, as shown. Evaluation Page 535
preferably provides Feedback 234 (at least herein embodying wherein
such question-presenter computer interface means comprises
correction-feedback-generator computer processor means for
generating at least one correction feedback on such at least one
response submitted by the at least one applicant related to such at
least one question; and, at least herein embodying wherein such at
least one question-presenter computer interface comprises at least
one correction-feedback-generator computer processor structured and
arranged to generate at least one correction feedback on such at
least one response submitted by the at least one applicant related
to such at least one question; and, at least herein embodying
wherein such step of providing at least one question further
comprises the step of providing at least one correction feedback on
such at least one response submitted by the at least one applicant
related to such at least one question) to User 200 based on such at
least one submitted Response 235.
[0120] Feedback 234 preferably informs User 200 of correct and
incorrect Responses 235 with at least one text-color change (this
arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such at least one
indicator comprises at least one text-color change). Feedback 234
preferably comprises informing User 200 of correct Responses 235 by
preferably changing the color of the text of correct Responses 235
to green (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such
correction-feedback-generator computer processor means comprises
indicator-generator computer processor means for generating at
least one indicator of such at least one correction feedback of
such at least one response; and, this arrangement at least herein
embodying wherein such at least one correction-feedback-generator
computer processor comprises at least one indicator-generator
computer processor structured and arranged to generate at least one
indicator of such at least one correction feedback of such at least
one response; and this arrangement at least herein embodying
wherein such at least one indicator comprises at least one
correct-indicator structured and arranged to indicate at least one
correct response in such at least response; and, this arrangement
at least herein embodying wherein such at least one
correct-indicator comprises at least one text-color change of
green). Feedback 234 preferably further comprises providing
supporting information on correct Responses 235. In addition,
Feedback 234 preferably comprises informing User 200 of incorrect
Responses 235 by preferably changing the color of the text of
incorrect Responses 235 to red (this arrangement at least herein
embodying wherein such at least one indicator comprises at least
one incorrect-indicator structured and arranged to indicate at
least one incorrect response in such at least response; and, this
arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one
incorrect-indicator comprises at least one text-color change of
red). Evaluation Page 535 preferably comprises an embedded frame
within Current Page 520 (see below). Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as program design preference, user preferences, cost,
changing training and certification requirements, future
technologies, etc., other feedback arrangements, such as, for
example, providing feedback at a separate WebPage, providing
feedback with talking head videos, providing feedback with audio
evaluations, etc., may suffice.
[0121] Preferably, once User 200 has reviewed Feedback 234 at
Evaluation Page 535, Subsequent Page 525 preferably is "unlocked"
for viewing by User 200 according to Page Advancement Step 532 (at
least herein embodying wherein such at least one
situation-navigation regulator computer processor comprises at
least one access-grantor computer processor structured and arranged
to grant access, within such at least one situation sequence, to at
least one subsequent such at least one fire-incident management
situation following completion of at least one prior such at least
one fire incident management situation), as shown. Subsequent Page
525 preferably provides Educational Information 230 to User 200, as
shown. If Subsequent Page 525 contains only text, graphics, and/or
media content, Subsequent Page 525 preferably is satisfactorily
completed once the content of Subsequent Page 525 has been
sufficiently reviewed by User 200, preferably allowing at least one
Subsequent Page 525 to be "unlocked" for viewing according to Page
Advancement Step 533, as shown. However, if Subsequent Page 525
contains at least one question 522, Subsequent Page 525 preferably
permits User 200 to submit at least one Response 235, as shown.
Such at least one Response 235 preferably is reviewed at Evaluation
Page 535 according to Evaluation Step 545, as shown. Preferably,
after reviewing Feedback 234 at Evaluation Page 535, at least one
Subsequent Page 525 preferably is "unlocked" permitting User 200 to
advance to another Subsequent Page 525 according to Page
Advancement Step 532, as shown. This cycle preferably is repeated
until User 200 has completed each WebPage 700 (excluding Quiz
Section 580) of Training Module 105 (this arrangement at least
herein embodying providing sequential situation navigation of a
plurality of such at least one fire incident management situations
to develop such at least one fire incident management skill).
[0122] Once every WebPage 700 of Training Module 105 is completed,
at least one Quiz Section 580 preferably is "unlocked", according
to Quiz Unlocking Step 555, as shown. Quiz Unlocking Step 555
preferably advances User 200 to at least one Quiz Page 550, as
shown. Quiz Section 580 preferably comprises multiple Quiz Pages
550. Questions 522 displayed on Quiz Page 550 (at least embodying
herein quiz-presenter computer interface means for presenting at
least one quiz to the at least one applicant at the end of such at
least one skill-training segment; and at least embodying herein at
least one quiz-presenter computer interface structured and arranged
to present at least one quiz to the at least one applicant at the
end of such at least one skill-training segment; and at least
embodying herein providing at least one quiz to the at least one
applicant at the end of such at least one skill-training segment)
preferably test User 200 on the material covered in Training Module
105. Quiz Page 550 preferably permits User 200 to submit of
Responses 235 to questions 522, as shown (this arrangement at least
herein embodying wherein such quiz-presenter computer interface
means comprises quiz-response-submitter computer interface means
for allowing submission of at least one quiz response provided on
such at least one quiz; and, this arrangement at least herein
embodying wherein such at least one quiz-presenter computer
interface comprises at least one quiz-response-submitter computer
interface structured and arranged to allow submission of at least
one quiz response provided on such at least one quiz; and, this
arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such step of
providing at least quiz further comprises the step of receiving
submission of at least one quiz response provided on such at least
one quiz). Submitted Responses 235 preferably are evaluated at Quiz
Evaluation Page 560 according to Quiz Evaluation Step 565, as
shown.
[0123] Quiz Evaluation Page 560 (at least herein embodying wherein
such quiz-computer interface means comprises quiz-feedback computer
processor means for providing at least one quiz-correction feedback
on such at least one quiz response submitted by the at least one
applicant; and at least herein embodying wherein such at least one
quiz-presenter computer interface comprises at least one
quiz-feedback-generator computer processor structured and arranged
to generate at least one quiz-correction feedback on such at least
one quiz response submitted by the at least one applicant)
preferably provides Feedback 234 to User 200, as shown. Feedback
234 preferably informs User 200 of correct and incorrect Responses
235 with at least one text-color change (this arrangement at least
herein embodying wherein such at least one quiz-feedback-generator
computer processor comprises at least one quiz-feedback
indicator-generator computer processor structured and arranged to
generate at least one quiz-feedback indicator of such at least one
correction feedback of such at least one quiz response; and, this
arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one
indicator comprise at least one text color change). Feedback 234
preferably informs User 200 of correct Responses 235 by preferably
changing the color of the text of correct Responses 235 to green
(this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least
one quiz-feedback indicator comprises at least one
correct-indicator structured and arranged to indicate at least one
correct response in such at least response; and, this arrangement
at least herein embodying wherein such at least one
correct-indicator comprises at least one text color change of
green). Feedback 234 preferably informs User 200 of incorrect
Responses 235 by preferably changing the color of the text of
incorrect Responses 235 to red (this arrangement at least herein
embodying wherein such at least one quiz-feedback indicator
comprises; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein
such at least one incorrect-indicator comprises at least one text
color change of red). In addition, feedback 234 preferably
comprises providing supporting information on correct responses.
Quiz Evaluation Page 560 preferably comprises an embedded frame
within Quiz Page 550. Upon reading this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as program
design preference, user preferences, cost, changing training and
certification requirements, future technologies, etc., other quiz
evaluation arrangements, such as, for example, providing
evaluations on a separate WebPage, talking head video evaluations,
audio evaluations, etc., may suffice.
[0124] Preferably, Responses 235 submitted by User 200 during Quiz
Section 580 preferably are scored and graded, generating
user-specific Quiz Scores 410 (see FIG. 3). Preferably, Quiz
Section 580 preferably is the only scored, graded, and recorded
section of Training Module 105. User 200 preferably must obtain at
least Minimum Score 585 (at least herein embodying wherein
completion of such at least one skill-training segment requires at
least one minimum of such at least one correct percentage) on Quiz
Section 580 in order be permitted to advance to at least one
subsequent Training Module 105 according to Unlocking Step 225, as
shown. Minimum Score 585 preferably corresponds to a submission of
seventy-five percent correct Responses 235 on Quiz Section 580.
Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as program design preference, user
preferences, cost, changing training and certification
requirements, etc., other minimum score arrangements, such as, for
example, higher minimum scores, lower minimum scores, etc., may
suffice.
[0125] Upon completion of Quiz Section 580 with at least Minimum
Score 585, at least one subsequent Training Module 105 preferably
is "unlocked" according to Unlocking Step 225 preferably permitting
User 200 to select at least one subsequent Training Module 105 at
Main Navigation Page 500, as shown. According to the steps shown in
FIG. 4, User 200 preferably may complete each Training Module 105
offered by Online Incident Commander Training Course 101. User 200
preferably has up to three chances to pass Online Incident
Commander Training Course 101 with an average of at least Minimum
Score 585 on all Quiz Sections 580. Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as program design preference, user preferences, changing
training and certification requirements, etc., other passing score
requirements, such as, for example, less than seventy-five percent,
more than seventy-five percent, etc., may suffice.
[0126] Upon successful completion of Online Incident Commander
Training Course 101, User 200 preferably is provided with Online
Certification 232, as shown. Online Certification 232 preferably
verifies that User 200 has successfully completed the online
portion of Incident Commander Training and Certification Program
100. Online Certification 232 preferably permits User 200 to
participate in Certification Simulation 195, as shown. Upon
successful completion of Online Incident Commander Training Course
101 and Certification Simulation 195, User 200 preferably obtains
at least one Incident Commander Certification 240, as shown (also
see FIG. 1 and FIG. 3).
[0127] FIG. 5 shows a diagrammatic view, illustrating the
navigation path followed by Trainer User 250 through Online
Incident Commander Training Course 101 as part of Incident
Commander Train-the-Trainer Program 600, according to another
preferred embodiment of the present invention. Trainer Users 250
preferably follow the same navigation path followed by Users 200
through Online Incident Commander Training Course 101 (see FIG. 4).
As shown in FIG. 5, Trainer User 250 preferably is permitted access
to Online Incident Commander Training Course 101 following User
Login Step 505, as shown. Following User Login Step 505, Trainer
User 250 preferably is directed to Main Navigation Page 500 (at
least embodying herein at least one sequential
skill-training-navigator computer interface structured and arranged
to provide at least one sequential skill-navigation of at least one
skill-training sequence of a plurality of at least one
skill-training segments to develop a plurality of such at least one
fire-incident management skills), as shown, allowing Trainer User
250 to preferably select at least one Training Module 105 according
to step Module Selection 510, as shown. Trainer User 250 preferably
must view the content of each WebPage 700 of each Training Module
105 and submit Responses 525 to any questions 522 before being
permitted to advance to at least one Subsequent Page 525 according
to Page Advancement Step 530 or Page Advancement Step 532, as shown
and described in detail above.
[0128] Upon completion of each Training Module 105, Trainer User
250 preferably is advanced to at least one Quiz Page 550,
preferably comprising Quiz Section 580, according to Quiz Unlocking
Step 555, as shown. Quiz Page 550 preferably provides questions 522
to Trainer User 250 and preferably allows Trainer User 250 submit
Responses 235 to questions 522, as shown. Trainer User 250
preferably is subsequently provided with Feedback 234 at Quiz
Evaluation Page 560, as shown. If Trainer User 250 obtains a at
least Minimum Score 585, Trainer User 250 preferably is advanced to
at least one subsequent Training Module 105 according Unlocking
Step 225, as shown. Upon successful completion of Online Incident
Commander Training Course 101, Trainer User 250 preferably is
provided with Online Certification 232, as shown.
[0129] Online Certification 232 preferably permits Trainer Users
250 to participate in Trainer Certification Simulation 605, as
shown. Trainer Certification Simulation 605 preferably comprises
six consecutive eight-hour days of training in which Trainer Users
250 preferably cover teaching and evaluation criteria necessary to
train and certify other students to serve the role of Incident
Commander. Trainer Certification Simulation 605 preferably also
comprises the three-day curriculum covered in Certification
Simulation 195 (see FIG. 4). Upon completion of Trainer
Certification Simulation 605, Trainer Users 250 preferably receive
Trainer Certification 640 preferably authorizing Trainer Users 250
to train and certify other students to serve the role of Incident
Commander according to the curriculum provided by Incident
Commander Training and Certification Program 100.
[0130] FIG. 6 shows a business flow chart view, illustrating the
interchange of compensation, education, certification, and
information between entities involved in Incident Commander
Train-the-Trainer Program 600, according to the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 5. Incident Commander Train-the-Trainer Program
600 of Incident Commander Training and Certification Program 100
preferably comprises interchange between Trainer User 250, Server
Environment 102, at least one Program Provider 270, and at least
one Regulatory Entity 275, and Students 650, as shown. Server
Environment 102 preferably allows Trainer User 250 to access Online
Incident Commander Training Course 101 through User Interface 370,
as shown. Server Environment 102 preferably provides Educational
Information 230 to Trainer User 250 while Trainer User 250
preferably participates in Online Incident Commander Training
Course 101, as shown. While participating in Online Incident
Commander Training Course 101, Server Environment 102 preferably
permits Trainer User 250 to submit Responses 235, as shown. Upon
successful completion of Online Incident Commander Training Course
101, Server Environment 102 preferably provides Online
Certification 232 to Trainer User 250, as shown.
[0131] Server Environment 102 preferably permits Program Provider
270 to access user-specific Quiz Scores 410 at Administration
Interface 380, as shown. Server Environment 102 preferably permits
Program Provider 270 to access Online Certification 232 at
Administration Interface 380, as shown. Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as program design preference, user preferences, cost,
company preferences, future technologies, etc., other information
accessing arrangements, such as, for example, email, file-transfer
protocol (FTP), etc., may suffice.
[0132] Upon completion of Online Incident Commander Training Course
101, Program Provider 270 preferably provides Trainer User 250 with
Trainer Certification Simulation 605, as shown. Upon successful
completion of both Online Incident Commander Training Course 101
and Trainer Certification Simulation 605, Trainer Users 250
preferably are provided with Trainer Certification 640 from Program
Provider 270, as shown. In addition, Program Provider 270
preferably provides Trainer Users 250 with Instructor's Package
630, as shown.
[0133] Instructor's Package 630 preferably provides a series of
instruction tools to be preferably used by certified Trainer Users
650 to train individuals in their respective home departments.
Instructor's Package 630 preferably comprises at least ten complete
core simulations each comprising a PowerPoint review and
instructor's guide. In addition Instructor's Package 630 preferably
comprises at least one Command Function Overview PowerPoint and
Instructor's Guide book, and at least one Communication Overview
PowerPoint and Instructor's Guide book. Furthermore, Instructor's
Package 630 preferably comprises at least five Tactical Template
Instructor's Guide books preferably corresponding to the five basic
occupancy/building types. The five basic occupancy/building types
preferably comprise residential structures, multi-unit residential
structures, strip malls, commercial structures, and big-box
structures. Each Tactical Template Instructor's Guide book
preferably comprises a three-ring binder containing teaching
resources for training students how to command and manage hazard
zone situations at the five basic occupancy/building types.
Furthermore, Instructor's Package 630 preferably comprises the Fire
Command video series, preferably comprising videos in DVD format,
eight of which preferably correspond to the eight command functions
of an Incident Commander and one of which corresponds to and
introductory DVD. Instructor's Package 630 further comprises at
least three Critical Fire Ground Factor video series, preferably in
DVD format, preferably relating to fire behavior in commercial
buildings. Instructor's Package 630 further comprises an overview
of new residential roof systems, and an instruction on how to
measure and manage risks. Instructor's Package 630 further
comprises at least one Managing Mayday video series, preferably
comprising at least four videos preferably in DVD format. Upon
reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art
will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as program design preference, company
preferences, accreditation requirements, etc., other instruction
tools, such as, for example, additional books, additional DVDs,
CDs, software programs, other hazard zone simulation tools, etc.,
may suffice.
[0134] In exchange for the provided training and certification
services, Program Provider 270 preferably accepts User Compensation
210 from Trainer Users 250, as shown in FIG. 5.
[0135] Upon receipt of Trainer Certification 640, certified Trainer
User 250 preferably are permitted access to Trainer Support
Interface 385 provided by Server Environment 102, as shown. Trainer
Support Interface 385 preferably comprises a user interface
preferably allowing Trainer User 250 to access Additional Training
Tools 645, as shown. Additional Training Tools 645 preferably
comprises additional media and teaching resources such as
additional simulations and additional instructor's packages for
both command, tactical, and task level training. Such Additional
Training Tools 645 preferably are available for download by Trainer
Users 250 at Trainer Support Interface 385. Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as program design preference, company preferences, user
preference, future technologies, etc., other methods to access
additional training tools, such as, for example, email, mail,
facsimile, etc., may suffice.
[0136] In addition, Trainer User 250 holding Trainer Certification
640 preferably is entitled to provide Incident Commander Training
655 to Students 650, preferably in order to train and certify
Students 650 to fill the role of Incident Commander at emergency
response scenes containing hazard zones, as shown.
[0137] Server Environment 102 preferably receives Data Files 415
from Program Provider 270, as shown. Data Files 415 preferably
comprise new, updated, modified, or repaired content, including
graphical data or questions preferably to be used to supply content
to Online Incident Commander Training Course 101. In addition, Data
Files 415 preferably comprises content, including graphical data or
questions, available for download by certified Trainer Users 250 at
Trainer Support Interface 385. Server Environment 102 preferably
permits Program Provider 270 to provide Data Files 415 at
Administration Interface 380, as shown. In addition, Server
Environment 102 preferably receives Media Content 368 from Program
Provider 270, as shown. Media Content 368 preferably comprises new,
updated, modified, or repaired video segments and/or audio files,
preferably utilized to supply dynamic content to Online Incident
Commander Training Course 101. In addition, Media Content 368
preferably comprises video segments and/or audio files available
for download by certified Trainer Users 250 at Trainer Support
Interface 385.
[0138] Regulatory Entity 275 preferably provides Accreditation 425
to Program Provider 270, as shown. Accreditation 425 preferably
provides Program Provider 270 with a right to offer trainer
certifications to persons seeking to train other persons seeking to
serve the role of Incident Commander.
[0139] FIG. 7 shows a screenshot view, illustrating the types of
web frames 750 viewable on WebPages 700 of Online Incident
Commander Training Course 101, according to the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 1. WebPages 700 of Training Modules 105
preferably may comprise at least one or more of the several web
frame 750 `types` illustrated in FIG. 7. Types of web frames 750
viewable on a WebPage 700 of Training Modules 105 preferably
comprise Content Frames 705, Audio Frames 710, Video with Audio
Frames 715, "Chief's Input" Frames 720, Picture Frames 725,
Multiple Choice Frames 730, and "Select all that Apply" Frames 735,
as shown.
[0140] Content Frames 705 (at least embodying herein text-computer
display means for displaying at least one textual content related
to training the at least one applicant in at least one fire
incident management skill; and, at least embodying herein at least
one text-computer display structured and arranged to display at
least one textual content related to training the at least one
applicant in such at least one fire-incident management skill)
preferably contain text and/or images providing information Users
200 and Trainer Users 250 must know in order to successfully
complete Incident Commander Training and Certification Program 100.
This arrangement at least embodies herein text computer display
means for displaying at least one textual content related to
training the at least one applicant in at least one fire incident
management skill.
[0141] Audio Frames 710 preferably comprise at least one audio file
preferably employed as a teaching tool (this arrangement at least
herein embodying wherein such media-streamer computer processor
means streams at least one audio stream; and, this arrangement at
least herein embodying wherein such at least one media-streamer
computer processor streams at least one audio stream). Audio Frames
710 preferably comprise at least one sample radio transmission or
at least one sample radio report (this arrangement at least herein
embodying wherein such media-streamer computer processor means
streams at least one radio-transmission-simulation audio stream;
and, this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at
least one media-streamer computer processor streams at least one
radio-transmission-simulation audio stream). Upon reading this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as program design preference, user preference, changing
training and certification requirements, future technologies, etc.,
other audio files, such as, for example, audio files of fire
simulations, audio files of hazard zone simulations, etc., may
suffice.
[0142] Video with Audio Frames 715 preferably comprise a
combination video and audio file which Users 200 and Trainer Users
250 may watch and listen as part of their online training. Video
with Audio Frames 715 preferably comprise video clips displaying
structure fire simulations or other simulated hazard zone
situations (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such
media-streamer computer processor means streams at least one
simulation-video stream; and, this arrangement at least herein
embodying wherein such at least one media-streamer computer
processor streams at least one simulation-video stream). Audio
Frames 710 and Video with Audio Frames 715 preferably create a
simulation-based style of instructions by integrating real world
hazard zone situations into the online training program. Audio
Frames 710 and Video with Audio Frames 715 preferably are played,
paused, and stopped at the discretion of User 200 or Trainer User
250.
[0143] "Chief's Input" Frames 720 (at least embodying herein
management-mentor computer interface means for providing management
mentoring to the at least one applicant while in such at least one
fire-incident management situation to develop at least one
fire-incident management skill; and, at least embodying herein at
least one management-mentor computer interface structured and
arranged to provide management mentoring to the at least one
applicant while in such at least one fire-incident management
situation to develop at least one fire-incident management skill;
and, at least embodying herein providing management mentoring to
the at least one applicant while in such at least one fire-incident
management situation to develop at least one fire-incident
management skill) preferably comprise video with audio files
presenting a short talking head video clip in which a Fire Chief
will provide input on a particular question, scenario, or topic
related to at least one command function. "Chief's Input" Frames
720 preferably are designed to coach Users 200 or Trainer Users 250
through particular material or a particular question in a given
Training Module 105 (this arrangement at least herein embodying
wherein such management-mentoring computer interface means
comprises question-mentoring computer interface means for providing
question mentoring to the at least one applicant relating to such
at least one question; and, this arrangement at least herein
embodying wherein such at least one management-mentoring computer
interface further comprises at least one question-mentoring
computer interface structured and arranged to provide question
mentoring to the at least one applicant relating to such at least
one question; and this arrangement at least herein embodying
wherein such step of providing management mentoring further
comprises the step of providing question mentoring to the at least
one applicant relating to such at least one question). "Chief's
Input" Frames 720 preferably are played, paused, or stopped at the
discretion of User 200 or Trainer User 250.
[0144] Picture Frames 725 (at least embodying herein image-computer
interface means for displaying at least one image representing at
least one fire incident situation; and, at least embodying herein
at least one image computer interface structured and arranged to
display at least one image representing such at least one
fire-incident situation) preferably comprise a still image,
preferably illustrating a hazardous scene such as a structure fire,
as shown. Multiple Choice Frames 730 (at least herein embodying
wherein such question-presenter computer interface means comprises
multiple-choice question computer interface means for providing at
least one multiple-choice question to the at least one applicant
related to such at least one fire-incident management skill; and,
at least herein embodying wherein such at least one
question-presenter computer interface comprises at least one
multiple-choice question-presenter computer interface structured
and arranged to present at least one multiple-choice question to
the at least one applicant related to such at least one
fire-incident management skill) preferably comprise at least one
question and group of answers from which Users 200 or Trainer Users
250 preferably select from and preferably submit as part of
Response 235 (see FIG. 1, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5, and FIG. 6), as
shown. "Select All that Apply" Frames 735 (at least herein
embodying wherein such question-presenter computer interface means
comprises select-all-that-apply question computer interface means
for providing at least one select-all-that-apply question to the at
least one applicant related to such at least one fire-incident
management skill; and at least herein embodying wherein such at
least one question-presenter computer interface comprises at least
one select-all-that-apply question-presenter computer interface
structured and arranged to present at least one
select-all-that-apply question to the at least one applicant
related to such at least one fire-incident management skill)
preferably comprise at least one question and a group of answers
from which Users 200 or Trainer Users 250 preferably select all
that apply and submit as part of Response 235 (see FIG. 1, FIG. 3,
FIG. 4, FIG. 5, and FIG. 6), as shown.
[0145] Following submission of answers to multiple choice questions
or "select all that apply" questions, at least one Information Box
740 preferably appears, as shown, preferably providing supporting
information for the correct answer(s). In addition, after answer
submission, correct answers preferably are highlighted in green and
incorrect answers preferably are highlighted in red. This
arrangement preferably comprises Evaluation Page 560, as shown in
FIG. 4 and FIG. 5.
[0146] Online Incident Commander Training Course 101 preferably
comprises at least nine categories of WebPages 700 comprising
various combinations of web frames 750 illustrated in FIG. 7.
"Content pages" of Online Incident Commander Training Course 101
preferably are WebPages 700 comprising Content Frames 705,
preferably having text and/or images to describe key points. "Video
pages" of Online Incident Commander Training Course 101 preferably
are WebPages 700 preferably comprising Video with Audio Frames 710
which preferably provide fire simulations or other hazard zone
simulations (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein
such media-streamer computer processor means streams at least one
video stream; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying
wherein such at least one media-streamer computer processor streams
at least one video stream). "Multiple choice pages" preferably
comprise at least one Multiple Choice Frame 730 and at least one
Video with Audio Frame 715 preferably presenting a structure fire
simulation or other hazard zone simulation which is preferably
related to the presented multiple choice question.
[0147] "Multiple choice with chief interaction" pages preferably
comprise at least one Multiple Choice Frame 730, at least one Video
with Audio Frame 715 preferably presenting a structure fire
simulation or other hazard zone simulation, and at least one
"Chief's Input" Frame 720. "Chief's Input" Frame 720 preferably is
played as needed by User 200 or Trainer User 250 to assist with
answering the multiple choice question.
[0148] "Multiple Choice with Radio Traffic" pages preferably
comprise at least one Multiple Choice Frame 730, at least one
Picture Frame 725 preferably providing at least one image,
preferably at least one still picture of a structure-fire
simulation, and at least one Audio Frame 710 preferably providing a
sample radio transmission or radio report. The sample radio
transmission or radio report preferably will assist User 200 or
Trainer User 250 to answer the multiple choice question.
[0149] "Multiple Choice with Chief Interaction and Radio Report"
pages preferably comprise at least one Multiple Choice Frame 730,
at least one Video with Audio Frame 715 preferably providing a
structure fire simulation video or other hazard zone simulation
video, at least one Picture Frame 725 preferably providing a still
frame of the presented simulation video, at least one Audio Frame
710 preferably providing a sample radio transmission or radio
report, and at least one "Chief's Input" Frame 720. "Chief's Input"
Frame 720 preferably is played as needed by User 200 or Trainer
User 250 to assist with answering the multiple choice question.
[0150] "Select All that Apply with Chief Interaction" pages
preferably comprise at least one "Select All that Apply" Frame 735,
at least one Video with Audio Frame 715 presenting a structure fire
simulation or other hazard zone simulation, and at least one
"Chief's Input" Frame 720. These pages may also comprise at least
one Audio Frame 710 preferably providing at least one sample radio
transmission or at least one radio report. "Chief's Input" Frame
720 preferably is played as needed by User 200 or Trainer User 250
to assist with answering the multiple choice question.
[0151] "Select All that Apply with Radio Traffic" pages preferably
comprise at least one "Select All that Apply" Frame 735, at least
one Audio Frame 710 preferably providing at least one sample radio
transmission or at least one radio report. "Select All that Apply
with Radio Traffic" pages preferably may also comprise at least one
"Chief's Input" Frames 720.
[0152] Quiz pages preferably combine Multiple Choice Frames 730,
"Select All that Apply" Frames 735, Video with Audio Frames 715,
Audio Frames 710, and Picture Frames 725.
[0153] Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill
in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as program design
preference, user preference, changing training and certification
requirements, future technologies, etc., other WebPage
arrangements, such as, for example, other combinations of web
frames, introduction of other web frame types, etc., may
suffice.
[0154] Although applicant has described applicant's preferred
embodiments of this invention, it will be understood that the
broadest scope of this invention includes modifications such as
alternate technology information transmittal, other teaching
methods, other user profiles, etc. Such scope is limited only by
the below claims as read in connection with the above
specification.
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