comms systems learning and assessment strategy

7/30/2019 Comms Systems Learning and Assessment Strategy

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Learning and Assessment Strategy

Minimum Skills

Operate Communications Systems

and Equipment


Version 1 0 26 April 2006


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Table of Contents

Learning Materials Control Sheet......................................................................................3Record of Versions............................................................................................................3Contact for Enquiries and Proposed Changes ..................................................................3PUAOPE002A Operate communications systems and equipment...................................4Competency Map: PUAOPE002A Operate communications systems and equipment..6


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Learning Materials Control Sheet

Record of Versions

No Date Nature of Amendment

1.0 26/04/2006 Initial draft learning and assesment strategy

Contact for Enquiries and Proposed Changes

If you have any questions regarding this learning document please contact the responsible

area identified below:

Name Tony Duckmanton

Designation Manager Learning and Development

CFA Headquarters,

8 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East, Victoria 3151

Phone (03) 9262 8310

Fax (03) 9262 8576

Email t duckmanton@cfa vic gov au


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PUAOPE002A Operate communications

systems and equipmentThis unit covers the competency to transmit and receive communications in routine and

operational situations using the organisations communication systems and equipment.

Element Performance Criteria

1. Use communication

systems and equipment

1. Equipment is used and operated safely to support

communications consistent with organisationspolicies and procedures

2. Communication equipment and techniques are

selected to best meet the task, context and needs

of the situation

3. The communication system is correctly utilised to

facilitate transmission and reception

4. Communication systems are operationallymaintained according to organisations policies and

procedures

2. Transmit and receive

communications

1. Information is transmitted concisely and clearly to

facilitate accurate reception of the message in

accordance with organisations policy and

procedures

2. Contact is acknowledged, communication is

confirmed and action initiated

3. Communication faults and deficiencies are reported

according to organisations policy and procedures

4. Alternative communication strategies are employed

according to organisational procedures to address

identified faults and deficiencies in communication5. Communication is processed and recorded in

accordance with organisations policies and

procedures

3 Maintain communications1. Fault finding techniques are applied and basic


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may include information systems, relevant legislation, such as

Telecommunications Act

Verbal communication

procedures may include

pro-words phonetic alphabet call signs coded

messages, use of abbreviations emergency procedures

Voice procedures may

include

Rhythm, speed, volume, pitch, sentences, correcting

mistakes, repetitions.

EVIDENCE GUIDE

Critical aspects of evidence It is essential for this unit that competency be

demonstrated in accurately transmitting and receiving

communications using the organisations

communication system and equipment

Interdependentassessment of units

Pre-requisite units: Nil

Co-requisite units: Nil

Underpinning knowledge organisational policy and procedures relevant to the

operation of communication equipment range of

communication equipment available to the organisation

the organisations communication system.

Underpinning skills clean and service communication equipment according

to organisational procedures report communication

faults and deficiencies according to organisational

procedures use verbal communication procedures

consistent with the organisations communication

system utilise the organisations communication

processes and systems

Resource implications access to relevant communication equipment

Consistency in evidence should be gathered over a period of time in a


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26 April, 2006 Operate Communications Systems and EquipmentComms Systems Learning and Assessment Strategy.doc Page 6 of 27

Competency Map: PUAOPE002A Operate communications systems and equipment

Elements of competency unit addressed in this training program

Sessions

1Use

communicationssystems andequipment

2Transmit and

receivecommunications

3Maintain

communicationsequipment

CFA requiredUnderpinningKnowledge

SkillsAssessment

Remarks

Radio communicationprinciples 9 9

Radio and communicationsystems 9 9 9 9

Radio types and operating modescovered are to be determined bylocal brigade needs.

Communications equipment 9 9

Verbal communications 9 9

Radio operational procedures 9 9

Dealing with difficulties 9 9


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Section 1

Learning Strategy Operate communication systems and equipment

Program Introduction Aids Time

Help learners to feelcomfortable aboutattending this Program

Welcome participants

Introduce yourself; name, background, qualifications to deliver this training program.

Conduct site induction and participant registration.

Ice-breaker activity (If required)

15 mins

Inform learners ofPrograms aim andobjectives:

Show OHT1 - Program aim/objectives .

Explain the outcomes that will need to be achieved.

Be able to:

Understand how radio communication network used by emergency services operate.

Operate and maintain radio communications equipment in accordance with SOPs.

Use CFAs standard radio procedures to communicate information during an incident. Take appropriate action if communications are lost.

OHT 1

Inform learners ofPrograms timetable:

Show OHT 2 Program Outline.

Discuss the program outline (Sessions and timings) and explain how the program will beconducted.

OHT 2


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Section 2

Learning Strategy Session 1: Radio Communication Principles Time: 30 mins

Aids Time

Introduce Session: Session 1 - Radio communication principlesShow OHT 3 Session introduction

This session introduces participants to the major components of a two radio and explains thebasic functions performed by each component. It covers the principles of radio communicationincluding concepts such as frequency bands, characteristics of radio waves and concludes bylooking at factors that can adversely effect radio signal transmission and reception.

OHT 3

Inform learners ofSession enablingobjectives:

Show OHT 4 Session Aims/Objective(s).Read read through each of the aims/objectives listed on the overhead.

Be able to:

understand how voice signals are transmitted over radio wave

describe how the frequency spectrum is divided into groups/bands of waves.

explain how the radio waves that make up the VHF and UHF radio transmission travel. identify factors that interfere with radio transmissions

Show OHT 5 Session content overview and briefly outline the key content areas that will be

covered in this session.

Clarify participant understanding of aims/objectives as required.

Components of a radio Principles of radio communication

Frequency bands

Characteristics of radio waves

Sources of interference

OHT 4

OHT 5

Stimulate recall of prior/prerequisite learning?:


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Section 3 .

Session 1

Enabling Objective:

Components of a radioPrinciples of radio communicationFrequency bands Time:

Content Points Instruct ional Method Practice/Feedback

Assessment

Aids/Refs

Basic radio components and their functions Microphone

Transmitter

Aerial Receiver

Speaker

HeadingShow 2 way radio and ask participants to namea key component and state its function.

Continue questioning until all components andtheir functions have been covered.

2 way portable radiofitted with antenna

and externalmicrophone.

Principles of radio communication Sound waves to electrical energy

Electrical energy to radio waves

Broadcast and received by aerials

Radio waves converted to electrical energy

Electrical energy converted to soundwaves.

Frequency BandsRadio spectrumHF/VHF/UHF radio bands

Show OHT 6 Components of a radioClarify as required.

HeadingShow OHT 7 - Principles of radio comunicationsDiscuss the sequence of actions that are carriedout within the radio in order to send and receivea voice message.

HeadingShow OHT 8 Frequency bandsIntroduce concept of radio spectrum andfrequency bands.Give examples of bands used in CFA andfrequencies covered by each band.

OHT 6

OHT 7

OHT 8


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Section 3 .

Session

Enabling Objective:


Sources of interferance. Time:


Assessment

Aids/Refs

Characteristics of radio waves Radio wave propagation

Direct

Refracted Reflected

Sources of interferance Thunderstorms and lightning

Heavy rainfall

High voltage power lines

Other radio users (on same or adjacentchannels)

Terrain Buildings

Session summary

HeadingShow OHT 9 Characteristics of radio wavesExplain how HF/VHF/UHF radio waves travel

and the range of travel.Other examples may be used eg.Microwave transmission, line of site acrossconnecting mainland with Tasmania.Ham radio (bouncing signals off ionosphere tocommunicate around the world).Very Low Frequencies (VLF) ground wavesused to communicate with submarines underwater several thousand lilometres away..

HeadingShow OHT 10 - Sources of interferenceIdentify factors that can disrupt the transmissionof radio signals.Use example of mobile phone blackspots in andaround our city. Poor reception in some ruraland country areas.

Use a range of questions to check participantsunderstanding of content covered in thissession.

OHT 9

OHT 10


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Section 3 .

Session

Enabling Objective:


Sources of interferance. Time:


Assessment

Aids/Refs

Session summary (contd) Q1. Briefly describe the 3 waves that make up aVHF and UHF radio transmission?

Q2. Explain what iis meant by term Line ofSight?

Q3. What factors can interfere with radiocommunications?Q4. What is meant by the term blackspot/shadow?

Q5. If communications are disrupted, what canyou do to try to restore communications?

Directed questions


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Section 2

Learning Strategy Session 2: Radio Communication Networks Time: 30 mins

Aids Time

Introduce Session: Session 2 Radio communication networksShow OHT 11 Session introduction

This session introduces participants to the makeup and operation of communication networksused in CFA. It looks at how the methods used to transmits signals, techniques used to extendthe range of transmitted and received signals, components that make up a network, the range ofcommunications equipment used by firefighters and the emergency reporting system.

OHT 11


Show OHT 12 Session Aims/Objective(s).

Read read through each of the aims/objectives listed on the overhead.

Be able to: Understand methods used to transmit radio signals with a communication network.

State the factors that can effect transmitter range and methods to improve that range.

Describe the components that may be used to form a radio communications network.

Provide examples of the different types of communication equipment used within CFA.


Show OHT 13 - Session content overview and briefly outline the key content areas that will becovered in this session.

Methods of transmission

Transmitter range

Local and remote control

Repeater transmission

Voting systems

Communication networks

Communications equipment

OHT 12

OHT 13

Stimulate recall of prior/

prerequisite learning?:


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Section 3 .

Session 2

Enabling Objective:

Methods of transmission and transmitter range

Types of radio systems and repeater systems Time:


Assessment

Aids/Refs

Methods of transmission Simplex

Duplex

Trunking

Transmitter range Radio band spectrum being used and the

atmospheric conditions.

Radio transmitter power and aerial

Portable (5 Watts)

Mobile (5 - 25 Watts) Base (25 W and up)

Aerial type and location

Mode of operation (trunk enabled)

Communication network and repeaters

HeadingShow OHT 14 Methods of transmissionDefine terms and explain concepts.

HeadingShow OHT 15 Transmitter rangeDiscuss factors that can increase range ofsignals broadcast from radios.

OHT 14

OHT 15

Radio systems

Local and remote control Local control

Remote control via landline

Remote control via radio link

Repeater transmission

Repeaters

Voting systems

Heading

Show OHT 16 Local and remote controlDiscuss each type of setup.

Discuss concept of repeater systemsShow OHT 17 Repeater transmissionShow OHT 18 Voting systemsProvide examples where used.

OHT 16

OHT 17OHT 18


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Section 3 .

Session 2

Enabling Objective:Types of communication equipment used in CFA communication systems

Time:


Assessment

Aids/Refs

Types of communication equipment used inCFA Two-way radios

Landline, mobile and satellite telephones Pagers / listening sets

Facsimiles

Fire and Emergency Reporting Systems(FRS / ERS)

Three main types of two way radios Base station

Mobile

Portable

Types of pagers

tone pager tone pager with voice over

alpha-numeric page

HeadingQuestion participants to identify the differenttypes of comms equipment used in CFA. List

answers on whiteboard.Show OHT 19 Communication equipmentCompare lists and introduce any missed itemsRefer SOP 9.18 Mobile phone use inOperations

HeadingShow OHT 20 Types of radiosIdentify 3 main types of radios used andquestion participants to determine the maindifferences/advantages of each type.Summarise features/advantages/disadvantagesof each type.

HeadingShow OHT 21 Types of pagersIdentify 3 main types and discussfeatures/differences for each type.

Show pager anddemonstrate its features.

OHT 19

SOP 9.18

OHT 20

OHT 21


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Section 3 .

Session 2

Enabling Objective:

CFA Communication systemsTime:


Assessment

Aids/Refs

Emergency reporting system

Communications Network

HeadingShow OHT 22 Emergency reporting systemExplain its purpose and operation.

Ask participants to describe how the systemoperates in their brigade.

HeadingShow OHT 23 Communications network.Ask participants to identify the different usersand methods of communication shown in thenetwork diagram.

OHT 22

OHT 23

Session 2 summary Use a range of questions to check participantsunderstanding of content covered in thissession.

Q1. What is the difference between Simplecxand duplex radio transmissions?

Q2. Name 4 pieces of equipment that may be

used in a CFA communication networks.

Q3. Describe 3 factors that can influence therange of a transmitted radio signal.

Q4. What is the difference between a remotecontrol via landline and a local control?

Directed questioning.


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Section 2

Learning Strategy Session 3: Verbal communication Time: 60 mins

Aids Time

Introduce Session: Session 3 - Verbal CommunicationShow OHT 24 - Session Introduction

This session covers voice and language techniques that make for effective radiocommunications.

OHT 24

Inform learners of

Session enablingobjectives:


Read read through each of the aims/objectives listed on the overhead.Be able to: Understand and comply with radio operator responsibilities.

Communicate using pro-words and phonetic alphabet in accordance with SOPs.

Regulate speech (rhythm, speed, volume and pitch) to communicate clearly and effectivelyvia a microphone.

Communicate using CFAs protocols for sending, receiving and or relaying radio messages.



Operator responsibilities

Pro-words

The phonetic alphabet

Transmitting numbers and time

Call signs Aerial identification of vehicles

Speaking into a microphone

Receiving, transmitting and relaying messages

Coded messages

OHT 25

OHT 27



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Section 3 .

Session 3

Enabling Objective:

Radio operator responsibilities

Techniques for effective radio communicationsTime:


Assessment

Aids/Refs

Radio operator responsibilitie Coordinating the exchange of information

from mobile to portable radio operators

Controlling the use of the radio network Maintaining radio network discipline

Keeping the airways free from unnecessarychatter

HeadingQuestion participants to determine operatorresponsibilities. Provide examples as required.Show OHT 28 Operator responsibilitiesSummarise responsibilitiesRefer to SOP 9.22 Radio use - CFA

OHT 28

SOP 9.22

Techniques for effective radio communications

Pro words

HeadingExplain concept of pro words and how they canreduce possibility of error in communications.

Show OHT 29 - 30Identify pro words and explain how/where andwhen they are used.Refer SOP 9.15 Mayday procedure

Participants are todemonstrate use of prowords by making upbrief messages and

repeating them to thegroup.Group to interpretmeaning of messages.

OHT 29 30

SOP 9.15

Use of Say again ( ) pro word Show OHT 31 Use of Say again (.)Explain circumstances in which the say againpro word might be used.

OHT 31


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Section 3 .

Session 3

Enabling Objective:




Assessment

Aids/Refs

Phonetic alphabet HeadingShow OHT 32 Phonetic alphabetIdentify phonetic alphabet and explainhow/where and when it is used.

Show OHT 33 Phonetic alphabet practice

Show OHT 34 Phonetic spelling practice

Using previous messageprepared by participantsask several participantsto repeat their messageand have others respondusing variations of thesay again pro word.

The message sender isthen required to repeatthe requested parts ofthe message.Ensure the correct

response is provided ineach instance.

Ask participants toprovide the phoneticwords for each letter.

Ask participants to spellthe words on the slidephonetically

OHT 32

OHT 33

OHT 34


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Section 3 .

Session 3

Enabling Objective:




Assessment

Aids/Refs

Transmitting numbers

12 and 24 hr clocks 12 24 hr clock time conversion

Call signs Radio call signs

Aerial identification of vehicles

HeadingShow OHT 35 Transmitting numbersDemonstrate the correct sounding of eachnumber when transmitting over radio.

HeadingShow OHT 36 12 and 24 hr clocksRevise concept of 24 hr clock.

Question participants to ensure everyone isconversant with both 12 and 24 hr time keeping.

Show OHT 37 Transmitting timesParticipants to practice sounding times for radiotransmission

HeadingShow OHT 38 Call signsDiscuss purpose of call signs and provideexamples

Show OHT 39 Aerial identification

Explain where this might be useful.

Show example numbersand ask participantssound them out aloud.

Show 12 hr time and askparticipants to convert to24 hr time and sound itout as if transmitting thetime over a radio.

Continue till all examplescompleted correctly.

OHT 35

OHT 35

OHT 36

OHT 37

OHT 38

OHT 39


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Section 3 .

Session 3

Enabling Objective:




Assessment

Aids/Refs

Speaking into a microphone RSVP acronym

Rhythm

Speed Volume

Pitch

Holding a microphone

Receiving, transmitting and relaying messages

Receiving a message (protocol)

Transmitting a message (protocol)

HeadingExplain what acronymn RSVP stands for.

Show OHT 40 Speaking into a microphoneExplain what is meant by rythm and speed.Provide several examples of appropriate rhythmand speed in speech.

Show OHT 41 - Speaking into a microphoneExplain what is meant by volume and pitch.Provide several examples of appropriate volumeand pitch in speech.

Show correct method for holding and positioninga microphone when speaking into it.

Heading

Show OHT 42 Receiving transmitting andrelaying messages.Explain protocol and provide opportunities forpractice.

Show OHT 43 Receiving transmitting andrelaying messages.

Explain protocol for transmitting

Demonstrate correcttechniques for holdingthe microphone whilespeaking (distance frommouth angle to face).

OHT 40

OHT 41

OHT 42

OHT 43


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Section 3 .

Session 3

Enabling Objective:




Assessment

Aids/Refs

Relaying messages

Show OHT 44 Receiving transmitting andrelaying messages.Discuss message sequence and provideopportunities for practice.

Show OHT 45 Relaying messagesExplain need for relays, protocol used andresponsibilities of person relaying the message.

Using two portableradios, select a range ofparticipants and havethem transmit a briefmessage to the receivingunit.Ask group to note clarityand ease ofunderstanding of

transmitted message.

Provide opportunities forparticipants to practice inpairs and in groups of

three to send, receiveand relay information.

OHT 44

OHT 45


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Section 3 .

Session 3

Enabling Objective:




Assessment

Aids/Refs

Session 3 summary Use a range of questions to check participantsunderstanding of content covered in thissession.

Q1. What does pro word wait mean?

Q2. What does the pro word Nothing heardmean?

Q3. What action should tyou take on hearing thepro word Emergency?

Q4. You need to advise Fiskville pumper 1 toproceed to a rural property. Use the phoneticalphabet, relevant pro word and figures to repeatthe address which is:a) 1526 Fuller roadb) 1983 Spence lanec) 1156 Bentons Creek road

Q5. How does the acronymn RSVP apply to theway you speak when transmitting a message byradio?

Q6. What words would you use to transmit thetime 11:45pm?

Directed questions


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Section 2

Learning Strategy Session 4: Radio operational procedures Time: 30 mins

Aids Time

Introduce Session: Session 4 Radio operational proceduresShow OHT 46 Session Introduction

This session introduces participants to radio operational procedures adopted by CFA. It coversthe types of messages that may be sent during an incident as well as the sequence in whichthey would generally be used.

OHT 46



Read read through each of the aims/objectives listed on the overhead.

Be able to: Explain the types of messages sent during an incident, and the sequence in which they

would be used



Turn-out

On scene

Word back / Sitrep

Assistance

Message / other messages

Returning

In Station

OHT 47

OHT 48



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Section 3 .

Session 4

Enabling Objective:

Types of radio messages Time:


Assessment

Aids/Refs

Type and purpose of radio messages

Turn-out

On scene

Word back / Sitrep

Assistance

Message / other messages

Returning

In Station

HeadingAsk participants to name the types of messagesthat might be sent during an incident.

Show OHT 49 Types of messagesQuestion participants to determine purpose ofmessage. Clarify as required.

OHT 49

Sequence of message Message type and purpose

Incident type

Status

Session summary

Show OHT50 - Communication sequenceStep through sequence shown in slide.Draw on personal experience to describe atypical incident scenerio and the flow ofcommunication that would take place.

Use a range of questions to check participantsunderstanding of content covered in thissession.

OHT 50


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Section 2

Learning Strategy Session 5: Operation of Motorola radios Time: 90 mins

Aids Time

Introduce Session: Session 5 Operation of Motorola radiosShow OHT 51 Session Introduction

This session introduces participants to the features, setup, call types and operation of theMotorola Syntrx-pro mobile radio, MTS 2000 and MTX 838 portable radios


Show OHT 52 Session Aims/Objective(s). Read read through each of the aims/objectiveslisted on the overhead.Be able to: use the controls and features on a range of Motorola radios (mobile and portable) to monitor,

receive and transmit conventional calls.

Note to Trainer: - Brigade equipment and communication needs will determine which (if any) ofthe radios advanced features will need to be covered. These may include any of the followingcall features: Trunking calls Dedicated calls Group calls Call in absence Status calls Emergency callsTelephone calls Interfleet / interprefix calls DTMF overdial


Show OHT 53 - Session content overview and briefly outline the key content areas that will becovered in this session. Features, Setup, Call types and Operation of motorola: Syntrx-pro radio MTS 2000 portable radio MTX 838 portable radio

OHT 51

OHT 52


L i d A S


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Section 3 .

Session

Enabling Objective:

Motorola Radio Types

Operation in conventional mode.

Time:


Assessment

Aids/Refs

Motorola radio types

Motorola MTX 838 Construction

Features

Controls

Operation

Show OHT 54 Motorola radio typesIntroduce the radios that will be covered in thissession.

HeadingExplain and demonstrate features provided.Demonstrate setting up the radio andmaking/receiving a call.

Pass around the portableradios to participants fora brief inspection.

OHT 55 -61

Motorola MTX 2000 Construction

Features

Controls

Operation

Motorola MCS 2000 Syntrx-pro Construction

Features

Controls

Operation

HeadingShow OHT - Conventional operationExplain and demonstrate features provided.Demonstrate setting up the radio andmaking/receiving a conventional call.

HeadingShow OHT - Conventional operationExplain and demonstrate features provided.Demonstrate setting up the radio andmaking/receiving a conventional call.

Provide opportunities forparticipants to practicesetting up for differenttypes of calls.

OHT 62-69

OHT 89-99

L i d A t St t


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Section 4 .

Session/Program Aids Time

Summary/Review: Use a combination of self check questions from the learner manual and or directed questioningtechniques

Learning Check: Learning checks should be carried out at the end of each session. Material covered in earlier sessionsmay also be checked in later sessions. Practical activities should be incorporated into the training toallow participants to demonstrate the skills required.

On the Job Practice: Determined at Brigade level.

Support/EncouragementTechniques:

Regular practice incorporated as part of skills maintenance program

Further Training: Determined at Brigade level.

Program/ Unit Evaluation: A post course review should be carried out to gather feedback and seek ideas for improving coursecontent and presentation.

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