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If you are enlisted and interested in taking army correspondence courses then you have come to the right place. The Army Correspondence Course Program/ACCP is a form of long distance online learning that is considered the official extension of the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command/TRADOC. The program is yet another must for active military members as they can often be unaware of what they’ll be doing next week, let alone where they’ll be doing it.

Its purpose is to train and educate Army personnel in many diverse skills and professions.

Resources on Army Correspondence Courses

Simply begin by reading the following information and then proceeding to review DA Pamphlet 351-20, which is just the technical term for The Army Correspondence Course Program Catalog. It’s an Army publication that lists all of the courses and select Department of Defense activities that are currently available to eligible service members.

The Army Institute for Professional Development/AIPD, which oversees military training and standards, updates the catalog annually in October; it provides a list of courses that can be taken by individuals and groups as well. In addition, the catalog notifies participants of any applicable changes in procedure and curriculum. The AIPD also ensures that its students are working with the same systems and software that are utilized by global leaders in business and industry.

Additional information can easily be found on the Army Training Support Center/ATSC website as well, where you will also be able to enroll electronically. This is your passport to higher learning as there are new courses that have combined several general subjects into one quick class. These types of army correspondence courses are known as Green Book courses and they provide a well rounded education involving relevant topics.

Example Army Correspondence Courses

One such course covers primary leadership subjects for soldiers ranging in rank from PVT thru SPC/CPL, catalog #553BD21. This is the first course targeted for troops that are prepared for the Primary Leadership Development Course/PLDC. It includes refreshers on the subjects of reading comprehension, writing mechanics, writing composition, and mathematics, along with study methods and management.

Another Green Book full course is Basic Leadership Subjects, catalog #553BD31. Those who are eligible for this course are soldiers in the rank of SSG or SGT that have completed PLDC and are ready to take the Basic Noncommissioned Officer Course/BNCOC. It includes lessons in behavioral sciences, communications, briefings, and visual presentations. Be sure to confirm course catalog #’s as they are subject to change, as are the details of the courses.

Army Correspondence Courses Curriculum

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As with most e-learning resources in the Army, you will find that the majority of courses are strictly voluntary and a minority are mandatory.  In some army e-learning programs you are allowed to take unlimited courses simultaneously, although with AIPD courses and sub courses, only one at a time is actually permitted. This rudimentary rule has been proven to help keep students focused in a certain area of expertise and ideally gaining more by retaining more.

Recently, the ACCP curriculum has completed its transition from the Interim Learning Management System/ALMS to the Army Learning Management System/ALMS. This latest phase in system upgrading features improved customer service/support and enhanced test security, while making things more accessible and user friendly. Furthermore, credits are being awarded in record time with the help of fully interactive hands-on training.

When enrolled in army correspondence courses, the automated student record system conveniently keeps track of your courses and credits, this helps in monitoring your status while working towards your goal or degree. Presently in this system, for every five hours of school completed, soldiers can receive one promotion point with the total number of points that are countable towards military education being twenty.

There are certain rules and guidelines to that must be followed in order to complete army correspondence courses correctly. Of course, all work that is submitted in an ACCP course, sub course, module, or examination must be your own, no copying or cheating is permitted any way whatsoever. Students who are suspected breaking the rules or caught doing so, are subject to Articles 133 and 134 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, which sounds somewhat intimidating so it is definitely recommended to submit your own work.

More Information on Army Correspondence Courses

COOL, which stands for Credentialing Opportunities On-Line, is a helpful Army website that provides information including how to fulfill requirements for civilian certifications and professional licenses. Visit the site for up to date info in regards to the credentialing fees and financial assistance or reimbursement that is available for certain programs and courses.

Provided this form of futuristic, computer controlled curriculum, classes are now being taken and completed in the most innovative manner possible given the technology of today. If you follow the roadmap for career development through army correspondence courses, you are sure to find your way to Success Street.

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The United States Army Skillport program can be one of the absolute best ways to jumpstart your future. Essential e-learning is now being offered online to military personnel with the purpose of providing a premium education and professional preparation in the pursuit of perfection, points, and advancement. This computer based application is the latest and greatest approach to education, more importantly, the Army Skillport is proving to be a successful and invaluable resource, and this is just the beginning.

The Army Skillport system was designed and implemented to make the military experience more challenging, fulfilling, and rewarding; as the possibilities and benefits of e-learning are seemingly unlimited. When enrolled in this program, you are the number one deciding factor in regards to determining your potential and progress. There is an increasingly vast selection of courses to sign up for and complete along with relevant certifications to aim for and eventually obtain.

Staying current with your primary Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) is crucial to being competitive in the Army and the civilian workplace. The convenient courses that are included on the Army Skillport platform efficiently teach professional and technical skills while specializing in the subjects of information technology, business, and leadership. The Army Skillport online system enables students to select certain skill levels and allows individuals to go at their own pace. Actually, there is no time limit for finishing a course, which is flexibility at its finest.

Another awesome aspect of the Army Skillport program is that it’s entirely free to many branches of the military, which makes it all the more appealing and appreciable. In addition, in 2006, Congress passed legislation stating that qualifying members of the National Guard or Reserves may be eligible for GI Bill reimbursement for licensing and certification fees that are charged, receiving up to $2,000 per test taken.

Army Skillport Registration

If you’re among the lucky enlisted, simply go online and complete the registration process at army.elearning@skillsoft.com  where you will be required to create an account prior to being permitted full access to your future. Be prepared to provide the proper credentials you will need to proceed. The Army Skillport is an exclusive program that is available only to Army employees, even if you possess an AKO account, you should first confirm if you are authorized to enroll.

Upon entering Army Skillport you will learn to utilize the state of the art software which was created by SkillSoft Corporation, a world leader in E-learning platforms that the Army recently partnered with. Out of all the online programs that are currently being utilized, the Army Skillport is credited as the first of its kind, although new advances and innovative improvements are constantly being made.

Security is always a high priority, especially in regards to classified data being transferred online. Therefore, there are several IT training courses such as IT Security Awareness and Federal Enterprise Architecture. In fact, SkillSoft has created more than 10 online courses that address the needs of the federal government and the requirements of its employees. The purpose of which is compliance as all of the courses meet 508 accessibility standards.

Career and Education Opportunities with Army Skillport

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The long distance yet consistent solution allows service members the opportunity to continue to increase their skills and expand their knowledge, from nearly anywhere. Additionally, course and information downloads are a fantastic feature for personnel seeking study time, points, or advancement while in remote locations where they may not have access to internet service. Because of this, 84% of Army MOSs have earned civilian credentials that are directly applicable to their occupation and 97% of the over 370,000 enlisted soldiers actually serve in these occupations.

Educational goals for service members often differ, for example, those who have enlisted at an early age may need to begin their army skillport education by earning a high school diploma equivalent, a.k.a. G.E.D., before setting their sights on an associate degree. Warrant Officers must obtain an associate degree in order for promotion to CW3 and for advancement to CW4; a bachelor’s degree is required. Also, Commissioned Officers must earn a bachelor’s before the possibility of being promoted to Captain.

In short, army skillport is a super cool tool and an ideal alternative to traditional school that should be, at the very least, explored by all eligible members of the military. There aren’t really any other places or programs in which you can you receive this type of top notch education without spending an unforgettable amount of money over a considerable period of time.  It only makes sense to try a course or two because even if you don’t pass, it will not count against you, and a passing grade is 70%, so you don’t necessarily need an A+ to get points and credits.

Lastly, you are generously allowed to take as many courses as you prefer, so if you’re smart and fast, consider your army skillport classes passed.

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When it comes to keeping military education in online order, the Army Learning Management System is the ultimate in organization. This is where all things regarding Army e-learning meet and get sorted electronically in an efficiently impeccable fashion. From courses and training to record keeping and scheduling, the Army Learning Management System is a basic necessity for trainees and trainers, providing one central location for Army training.

Availability and Purpose of the Army Learning Management System

The Army Learning Management System is always just a keyboard stroke away, 24 hours a day. The computer system is one of the reasons that the well known and respected military slogan “Trained and Ready” applies and holds true now more than ever. For example, with this system, Soldiers can participate in distributed learning while managing their assignments, training records, and goal requirements. In addition, civilians can conveniently take directed training for HQDA/Headquarters, Department of the Army.

The Army Learning Management System is for all different levels and purposes of the military, it even enables operational unit leaders and NCO’S/non-commissioned officers that are in training to access individual and unit readiness. Also, it allows training managers to schedule and commit training resources in addition to permitting training developers to assess course quality, which leads to inevitable benefits that affect the entire Army infrastructure.

 Courses on the Army Learning Management System

The courses offered in the Army Learning Management System include such subjects as Theories of Accident Prevention and Military Briefings. There is also a new course on Risk Communication that has proven to be quite popular lately. The Army Learning Management System can also assist with meeting specialized training requirements for safety professionals and the Director of Army Safety/DASAF is in charge of safety training in accordance with AR 600-3.

Options are always being added, the Army Combat Readiness and Safety Center or CR/SC is now hosting its Distance Learning courses on the Army Learning Management System website. Therefore, there are now several Army Training Requirements and Resources System/ATRRS courses available also, such as Injury Prevention Through Leadership, Commanders Safety Course, and Composite Risk Management Civilian Basic, to name just a few.

 Features of the Army Learning Management System

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The introduction of the Army Learning Management System has saved untold time for administrators, instructors, and Soldiers, not to mention uncountable dollars for the United States Army and the federal government. Although, some say cheaper and better usually don’t belong in the same sentence, with ALMS, an exception to the saying is surely found. It truly is a win, win system that is accredited to technology, intelligence, and imagination.

Another unique attribute of the army learning management system is that it allows students as well as course coordinators to collaborate on information and assignments via computer or smart devices. Whether working with another student on a project, seeking advice or sharing experiences, this has become a favorite feature amongst many members of the motivated military learning force.

 Help on How To Use the Army Learning Management System

Before enrolling in an army e-learning course, and after setting up an Army Knowledge Online/AKO account, new students should definitely check out the Help and FAQ pages on the LandWarNet e-University portal. Spending a little time there may save a lot of time later and there is also a comfortable Discussion Forum for live chat that is informative, friendly, and frequently fun.

During a virtual visit to LandWarNet, a student can also get acquainted with the Blackboard E-Learning Interface which is an online course delivery and management software system. Currently, the Army is using Blackboard 7 for supplementing Resident training and for hosting Distributed Learning for Soldiers that are outside of Fort Gordon. Instructors may use the software to train their Soldiers and provide assistance in educational efforts.

 Blackboard Courses

The Blackboard courses are completed via web browser, hence in most cases, no special downloads are required to access, simply internet service. Although the browser that is used may determine the limitations in reception, therefore, it is recommended that “surfing” Soldiers use Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher for the best connection. Others may work with minimized capability, though sometimes, something is better than nothing, especially when referring to learning.

Enrolling in a Blackboard course is a smart and simple step that can be taken from any direction. If at a military installation; enrollment is handled by the course instructor, if accessing thru a DL MOS-T or other ATRRS managed course, consultations are conducted by the same instructor. Lastly, if working in a distance-learning program for self-paced or sustainment training, then contacting course administration via email at uit-llc@conus.army.mil for further instructions is advisable for advancement.

The Army Learning Management System is always at the ready and is undeniably relied upon by the Army for executing many important tasks and providing invaluable data. This includes the evaluation of students, teachers, and courses, the collection and storage of feedback, and the monitoring of scores, testing, and progress. Constantly in pursuit of self-improvement, the army learning management system is programmed to learn from itself in order to offer an excellent education.

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Whether you are already enlisted in the United States Army or are currently considering joining, there are more motivating reasons than ever to be a part of the force. Aside from the traditionally noble and exciting enticements, such as serving your country and seeing the world, there are now new ways to expand your horizons by “going green”.

One of the ways to do so is by enrolling in the always advancing Army e Learning program. Look into it and you will be amazed at all of your educational options, not to mention the ease of access to an almost unlimited world of learning that awaits you. This type of schooling has quickly become the primary source of initial and continuous IT training in the military. This is partly due to the fact that it has been proven to increase performance.

Whether you are presently on active duty or happen to be on stand by in the reserves, this online, state of the art program is definitely a cost effective and convenient way to further your skills and knowledge in whatever your field of interest may be. The best part is you can study for and complete your selected courses from virtually anywhere on the planet via computer, tablet, or even thru your very portable smart phone, the sky really is the limit.

Pros and Cons of Army e Learning

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In today’s fast paced, frenzied world, mobility has become the norm in nearly every form and in some cases a necessity. Although it may have its advantages and disadvantages as most things usually do, the former truly outweighs the latter in this matter. The benefits of online army e learning are numerous and if you are serious and disciplined about it, then you can achieve whatever you pursue and put your mind to. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with a real classroom filled with real students and a teacher, though unfortunately for many, especially in the Army, it can be unrealistic to make it to a class on time, if ever at all.

With army e learning, you can study at any pace, from any place. Also, did I forget to mention that it’s free? You can’t beat that! And with the growing database of cutting edge courses that are available, you are sure to find a few that will suit you. Some of the courses are actually approved by the American Council on Education, which means if you pass the class; it can be applied towards credits for college. So eventually, if you apply yourself appropriately, you can earn a free degree to help you advance your career inside or outside of the Armed Forces. In addition, you can use your credits for promotion points if you intend to stay in the Army and climb the ranks.

Practically Proficient

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The program presently offers over 5,400 courses to all active duty Army, National Guard, Reservists, ROTC, and DA civilians. As of 2011, well over 800,000 users have enrolled in e learning classes which include Information Technology, business, leadership, and self development. With the intensive and extensive training provided, you will gain the experience you need to work in your specific field of choice. Keeping up to date with the latest and greatest is a priority if you are to meet and exceed the Army’s and future employer’s expectations of you.

The way army e learning works is each course or “module” that you take contains several sub courses that are completed one at a time. As you finish each module, you acquire skill qualifications and points, which you will find, can be applied to many positive things. Under the current program policy, enlisted personnel receive promotion points, DA civilians receive continuous learning points, and reservists receive retirement points. Generally, you get 1 promotion point for every 5 hours of training and for every 6 modules you complete, you can receive 2 ACE college credits.

There’s also more than 40 different army e learning certifications that you can earn, with levels of competency that range from Novice to Expert. Find yourself in demand while you’re in the Army with popular IT certification programs pertaining to networks such as Cisco or databases such as Oracle, you can even get certified to become a Microsoft Systems Engineer, take your pick. When utilized and practiced, the additional skills that you can acquire are sure to enhance your overall military experience and mission performance.

Don’t like learning all alone? Well you don’t have to when you are provided with online subject matter experts and virtual mentors, who are ready to assist you whenever you may need guidance. Not only are they always available, as in 24/7, you’ll also have total access to a vast online library of  useful information including white papers, articles, and live or recorded seminars conducted by industry leaders.

If you still feel lost and alone, there are online meeting rooms that you can enter in order to elaborate on your thoughts or collaborate on a question or project with other students. Either way, company is never far away, even if it’s computerized. In May of 2010, the program was upgraded to the Army Skillport 7.0 by Skillsoft, this version is much more user friendly and interactive than its predecessor.

Another functional feature of army e learning is ATTRS, or the Army Training Requirements and Resources System which is used to schedule soldiers for training, among many other things. The database also keeps track of a person’s prior schooling and any future training that might be required. It also contains a list of every soldier by name and facts about their educational background. More importantly, it has a full list of every school that is offered by the United States Army. As you can see, there are many reliable resources to help you succeed with your remote education.

To get started just log in at the Smartforce or AKO website by entering your information and going thru the verification process for which you will need your AKO credentials to do so. After that, you are ready and can register for the courses that you are permitted to take. If you require assistance or administrative support when signing up, then you should contact the ATTRS Help Desk, there you can obtain direct assistance regarding your enrollment and answers to your questions.

 Army e Learning programs

There are several Army e Learning programs, a few of which are:

eArmyU – which allows you to take college classes in your off-duty time and can ably assist you in preparing for a future non-military job.

DANTES – which stands for Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support and it provides personnel with educational opportunities that are both practical and compatible with life in the military. This form of long distance learning is an innovative way to keep deployed troops alert, informed, and entertained by implementing satellite, video, and now even Podcast courses.

You can also continue your career in the military through the Army Correspondence Courses Program, which preps you for promotion. There’s even a Green to Gold Enlisted Commissioning Program that you can enter, the possibilities are endless.

Given the potential that you have for literally “going places” in the U.S. Army, perhaps it would be wise and advisable to learn another language in order to be more productive, proactive, and communicative in the foreign location that you are or may soon be stationed. With army e learning you can consider it done and you now have 34 languages to choose from using the Rosetta Stone Military Edition Courses that are available. This breakthrough method of teaching utilizes Dynamic Immersion, which features native speakers and real life images, basically guarantees to have you speaking and writing your “second” language in a surprisingly short amount of time. It really can be fun and of course it’s also free, that is if you’re in the Army.

Even if your unit is being deployed to the middle of nowhere, where there is little or no internet access and the dialect may as well be gibberish, you can still at least try to clear the confusion. This can be done by simply requesting the particular version of Rosetta Stone that you require for the region you are going to be based. Just load it on your computer prior to deployment and you won’t need the internet or CDs to continue your army e learning. In fact, it may be better that way because you won’t be inclined to “surf” away from your language lessons in search of other internet entertainment. So far, over 300,000 service members have learned new languages with this invaluable program.

 Updates of the Army e Learning program

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In August of 2010, the army e learning language program was uniquely updated to the Rosetta Stone version 3 Military Edition. This was welcomed news for Army members that are stationed all around the globe, from the Middle East to Asia, as it now teaches Pashto, Dari, Urdu, Arabic for Iraq, and Bahasa Indonesia dialect. And now you can be the first person on your block that speaks Swahili, when you finally return home from duty.

In September of 2010, the new DoD 8570.1 Knowledge Center was introduced, taking the place of the IT Security Knowledge Center. This improvement provides additional resources related to beginner, core, and specialty topics such as Computer Network Defense Service Providers (CNDSPs), IA Technical and IA Management, plus ICND1/2 networking devices. The center also features the top computing environment technologies of today like Microsoft Windows and CISCO. Not only does the upgrade offer a more precise way to learn it also features hands-on Practice Labs to enhance your studies.

Also in 2010, InGenius was added to the e learning program, and its name says it all. It is a set of features on Books 24×7 that enables users to locate, share, and create with their colleagues in the service. Once you log in and create your profile, you will be ready to participate in this online community that truly is ingenious. Just remember to fill out the entire form, even the optional data, as this will lead to a more fulfilling experience.

As of October 2010, the army e learning course with the highest enrollment was The No Fear Act, which at that time, had been completed by over 158,000 students. Some of the other top ten courses include Windows XP: Fundamentals, Encryption Technology, and TCP/IP. With all this technology at your fingertips, what are you waiting for?

With army e learning, you do not have to be an active member of the military to partake in the program. Although it’s not for free, the Army does offer considerable discounts for family members of those who are on active duty and there are also reduced tuition fees for retirees, contractors, and Veterans. This lucky group can gain economical access to most of the courses and databases that are available, like the IT and Business e learning libraries and Referenceware collections such as Office Essentials, to name just a few. So, if you own a computer or have access to one, then it only makes sense to sign up. Please contact the e learning manager or supervisor in your area for details.

Summary

Basically, whether you are a recently ranked private or a seasoned general getting ready to retire, army e learning can provide you with the opportunity to improve yourself in countless ways. Regardless of if you intend to stay in the Army or if this is just a chapter in your hopefully long life, free education is something that you should surely take immediate advantage of and join the Army e Learning program - after all, knowledge really is power.