Training can only go so far in the classroom. Some aspects and experience can only be achieved on the job. One way to do that is with a practice that is called double teaming.
Double teaming is the process of putting a less experienced person to work with an experienced one, particularly in operations, installations, and technical work. This enables the lesser experienced (or new person) to show their stuff under fire, be evaluated under pressure, and sometimes step up into the role of a more responsible position.
Double teaming is the process of putting a less experienced person to work with an experienced one, particularly in operations, installations, and technical work. This enables the lesser experienced (or new person) to show their stuff under fire, be evaluated under pressure, and sometimes step up into the role of a more responsible position.
An excellent way to double team is in packet operations. It's a natural because it seems there are never enough prompt, experienced packet operators with transportable packet terminals. It's really imperative that a second operator be ordered up. A typical forest fire day starts at 5:30 a.m. and may run to 8 or 10 p.m. for most communications people. Radio and packet operators need relief under such stress and long hours. Virtually every position, from communications officer or shift supervisor to net control operator can be double teamed where space allows. The process can be extended to virtually any position in or related to an emergency communications unit; actually, any job in the EMA itself! Try it, you may like it far better than you at first may think possible!
Actually, the process of one-on-one teaching --by showing, leading, invoking interest in and ability to expand and grow in usefulness, actions and abilities -- is a time honored process that has been proven in many ways. In one sense its rather like a modern day equivalent of the master/apprentice process, but molded to fit a different time and situation. Stated in another way, its friend helping friend.
True, you can function without double teaming but you aren't doing your "second string" any favors. Don't you want them all to become first string personnel? What better way to help them along the way?
Signed Stan Harter, Auxiliary Communications Service program coordinator, State of California.
Actually, the process of one-on-one teaching --by showing, leading, invoking interest in and ability to expand and grow in usefulness, actions and abilities -- is a time honored process that has been proven in many ways. In one sense its rather like a modern day equivalent of the master/apprentice process, but molded to fit a different time and situation. Stated in another way, its friend helping friend.
True, you can function without double teaming but you aren't doing your "second string" any favors. Don't you want them all to become first string personnel? What better way to help them along the way?
Signed Stan Harter, Auxiliary Communications Service program coordinator, State of California.
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