This book proposes moving towards a pedagogy where the learning is taken through a series of courses based on real-life scenarios, role-playing, using course texts that are written more like novels (Novel Texts) and then places the learner in situations to actively apply the very principles he or she must replicate in a real-world situation to show skills mastery. The authors lay out a process of using competency-based learning tools, like synchronous interactions, scenario-based story-booking of course material, and course-leveled assessments to bring the learner to a point of mastery of outcomes directly related to his or her professional endeavors. Based on the results of numerous studies over the past five years, we can now utilize alternate methods, tools, and best practices to immerse the learner into a successful process of learning based on role-playing, using life-based scenarios, which can be assessed according to industry provided requirements. True competency-based learning has been shown to be achievable through readings that provide the requisite information in a story-based novel-like text, reinforced with role-playing scenario-based application of what is learned. This requires the learner to analyze a series of real-life situations utilizing critical thinking to synthesize a decided course of action and evaluate the validity of that decision. This can then be assessed against a set of industry identified criteria to show the level of mastery in the specified competency.
About the Author: Jeff Tyler is a semi-retired Project Management Professional (PMP) with over 35 years of extensive experience in systems management managing projects and programs in the IT, Telecom, DoD, Transportation, and Space industries. Jeff has taught graduate and undergraduate classes in project management, systems management and bioastronautics since 1993. He is one of the contributing authors to the Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge(R) (PMBOK(R)) from the Project Management Institute (PMI). He has been a PMP since the late 1990's. Jeff is an invited lecturer to the International Academy of Business and Economics (IABE), the Institute of Business Analytics and Management (IBAM), International Applied Business Research (IABR) and the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). He has extensive PM experience with virtual and global projects as well as in-house programs. Jeff lives in Colorado where he enjoys photographing the great outdoors and consulting with different organizations on developing good project management tools, techniques and processes. Bill Chadick is an successful leader and manager who has operated in a variety of industries. He has special expertise in developing and implementing program and project management processes, risk management, earned value management, Six Sigma tools and processes, disaster recovery, and business contingency operations. He has significant experience planning and supervising complex programs that require integration of hardware, software, operational infrastructure systems, logistical deployment of platforms, and command, control, and information systems. Bill has exceptional leadership skills (former Army infantry officer). He is an experienced educator, trainer, and mentor in both the academic and corporate environments. He has particular competence with multi-functional logistics management and planning (i.e., supply, maintenance, transportation, facilities, and medical); joint operations; simulations and modeling; documentation development; assessment methodology. Bill is a capable and dependable self-starter who can provide a variety of complex, technical, leadership and project/program management skills. Bill has a passion for the practice of program and project management, which is demonstrated by internationally recognized professional certifications that include Project Management Professional (PMP), Earned Value Professional (EVP), and Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB).