Blended Training

Hellier blended training takes traditional nondestructive testing (NDT) training courses and divides each course into two components:

  • Theory – taken online, using a computer or tablet. The theory portion can be taken at any time, at the technician’s own pace, in the office, at home, or elsewhere.
  • Practice – requires in-class, hands-on, supervised practical training.

Traditional NDT training requires up to five full days (40 hours) of in-class instruction. This model is effective, but requires technicians to miss a full work week and incur the cost of a week in a hotel. This can place a burden on the employer and the employee, both from time away from work and travel expenses. Blended training is an exciting option to maximize time and minimize expenses.

Theory

The theory portion of training encompasses the complete NDT body of knowledge on a specific method and level. Theory is learned through presentations and publications, and does not require a classroom environment.

Technicians can learn and complete the material by working at their computers at their own pace over a period of days and weeks during free time or approved work time. Instructors are available to answer questions from students.

Practice

A student cannot get the full training necessary without physically being familiar with the equipment. The second step in blended training is to spend up to two days in a classroom with an instructor, working with equipment and using testing procedures on real world applications.

By completing the entire theory course first, the students enter the classroom 100% focused on learning to use the equipment to perform testing. This focus improves the quality of the classroom experience because the instructor does not have to take time away from teaching practical NDT techniques to discuss theory. This process will validate knowledge and skills better than just an online course that finishes with a written course exam.

The blended program reduces travel time and expenses, and time away from work, while promoting learning in an environment more in tune with today’s technology and educational systems.

Why blended training works:

  • It allows for students to take theory online, over a period of time, at their pace, and then take the hands on training later, when they are ready, over a more compressed period.
  • The student only misses one or two days of work.
  • Instructors focus all their training on the equipment and practical applications rather than spending valuable class time incorporating theory that can be learned virtually.
  • Overall cost is lower because employers only lose their employees for one or two days at a time, rather than a full week, reducing both lost billable time and travel expenses.