Pre-Deployment Elearning for CSDP Missions / Operations

Abstract

Since 2012, the European Security and Defence College is actively engaged in pre-deployment training for CSDP missions and operations. Although the main effort still relies on residential courses, the preparatory and supporting eLearning part receives more and more attention. eLearning is independent of time and location; hence, a perfect tool to training newly selected staff before their deployment to a mission area. Additionally, the running costs are lower compared to a residential course. The main challenges include the content of the eLearning modules, the nomination of trainees as well as the co-ordination between Headquarters and Mission responsibilities. Financial implications of training and the time constraints play also an important role as well as the in-mission training. Additionally, the various legal states of the deployed personnel (contracted, seconded, locals), the different personal security clearances and the learning content (no classified information in eLearning modules, sensitive information accepted) raise concerns when it comes to eLearning. The presentation will give an insight, how the ESDC provides eLearning modules for pre-deployment training taking EUNAVFOR SOMALIA as an example. The article will also tackle the challenges concerning selection/recruitment, nomination for training and in-mission training. It will give an overview about the state of affairs and the way ahead. The presentation will give an insight, how the ESDC provides eLearning modules for pre-deployment training taking EUNAVFOR SOMALIA as an example. The article will also tackle the challenges concerning selection/recruitment, nomination for training and in-mission training. It will give an overview about the state of affairs and the way ahead.