Ready Relevant Learning (RRL) is a comprehensive training initiative designed to modernize and distribute training throughout a Sailor’s career. Block Learning serves as the foundational step within RRL, transforming initial training paths into modular blocks that are strategically delivered across a Sailor’s service. This innovative approach ensures that training remains timely and directly applicable to the evolving demands of a naval career.
The core of Block Learning is the phased delivery of training modules, or “blocks,” at key points in a Sailor’s career. This structure is designed to maximize knowledge retention and on-the-job performance by providing training when it is most needed. Fleet Sailors are now scheduled to return for further training around 24 months after joining operational units. This ensures they receive advanced modules and have opportunities to earn progressive Navy Enlisted Classifications (NECs) as their careers advance.
Training blocks are defined by their place in a Sailor’s career trajectory.
Block 0 encompasses all training completed before a Sailor’s first command. This foundational stage includes:
- Recruit Training Command (RTC), providing initial military training.
- Life Skills (LS) training, equipping Sailors with essential personal and professional skills.
- Accession path schools, such as “A” or “C” schools, offering specialized technical training.
Block 1 focuses on formalized rate training during a Sailor’s first tour. This training is intentionally timed for delivery between 12 to 24 months after a Sailor reports to their first command, ensuring relevance to their early operational experiences.
Block 1.X provides flexibility for additional training blocks during the first sea tour, designated as Block 1.2, 1.3, and so on, as required by evolving needs and career progression.
Block 2 is dedicated to formalized rate training occurring just before or during a Sailor’s second tour, building upon the experience gained in the first assignment and preparing them for increased responsibilities.
Modern Delivery at Point of Need
RRL emphasizes modernizing content and diversifying delivery methods to accelerate learning, combat skill decay, and offer readily available performance support. This approach ensures that training is not only relevant but also accessible and effective in today’s fast-paced naval environment.
Block Learning (2017 – 2022) laid the groundwork by modernizing initial training to build proficiency precisely when it’s needed in a Sailor’s career.
Enhanced, Accessible Learning (2018 – 2025) expands on this by enriching the learning continuum with enhanced content and multiple delivery options directly available at waterfront locations, increasing accessibility and convenience.
Modernized, On-Demand, Fleet-Responsive Learning (2020 and Beyond) represents the future, providing robust training options and performance support available on-demand at convenient locations. This ensures continuous learning and adaptation throughout a naval career.
Integrated Content Development
RRL is also committed to streamlining content development, significantly reducing both the cost and time required to deliver the most relevant training to the Fleet. This agility is crucial in a rapidly changing world, allowing the Navy to quickly adapt training programs to new technologies and operational demands.
Block Learning (2017 – 2022) established the critical role of fleet input in developing training requirements and validating analysis, ensuring that training is directly aligned with real-world needs.
Enhanced, Accessible Learning (2018 – 2025) aligns processes, standards, and resources to accelerate the development cycle, making content creation more efficient and responsive.
Modernized, On-Demand, Fleet-Responsive Learning (2020 and Beyond) empowers rapid and responsive content control authority to drive ongoing improvement, ensuring that training content remains cutting-edge and consistently relevant to the evolving challenges of a naval career.
In conclusion, Block Learning, as part of the Ready Relevant Learning initiative, represents a significant advancement in naval career development. By offering a program that delivers training relevant to each stage of a Sailor’s career, the Navy ensures a highly skilled and adaptable force ready to meet the demands of modern naval operations. This phased and modernized approach to training is essential for maximizing individual potential and maintaining naval superiority.
