MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala -- A staff sergeant is giving an important lesson to a group of military members on sexual assault awareness and prevention, but it is clear that her “students” are going out of their way to distract her and show their complete disinterest.
In this course the distractions are a part of the lesson and the instructor is really just a student herself.
The Enlisted Military Professional Education Instructors Course located on Maxwell – Gunter Annex, prepares instructors who teach at every level of EPME across the Air Force to be ready for everything.
Senior Master Sgt. Lauren Brock, EMPEIC commandant, said the course has taken approximately 23,000 Airmen through the PME experience and has allowed them to then go out and facilitate the guided discussions that are held in Air Force EPME courses.
As Airmen progress through the ranks, they are required to attend Airman Leadership School, Non-commissioned Officer Academy, Senior NCO Academy and the Chief’s Leadership Course.
It’s the responsibility of the five instructors of the EPMEIC to ensure those who teach EPME courses, are prepared for the job.
Through 35 hours of distance learning and 158 hours of residence learning, the students are taught administration, course foundations, educational technology and more.
“We want the students to be able to have valued input; so guiding them through the discussions, giving feedback … and giving experiences to bridge those gaps is what helps the students ultimately reach their goals of comprehension on the different lessons they’ll learn,” Brock said.
The course focuses on student centered learning, where the students help each other to reach the comprehension level.
“This course sets the precedence for people to go out into the Air Force and actually do their job, Brock said. “I think we do a pretty good job of providing a safe environment so that when the instructors come here, they feel safe to make mistakes and get better at their craft.”
Brock said if mistakes are going to be made, during this course is the time to make them. Through open and honest feedback, Brock and her team of instructors help their students become the best they can be.
Brock said, “Most importantly we are here to serve... and give those instructors the confidence they need to be able to go out and serve their students.”