INDIANAPOLIS - Much of the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society’s (RSES’) extensive inventory of training courses is finding its way to the Internet. Service technicians can sit at a computer; study what they want at their own pace, take an exam online, and print out their own certificate of completion.

“E-Learning is our future,” RSES International President Larry Lynn told delegates and attendees at the society’s Annual Conference and HVACR Technology Expo. The announcement came in conjunction with the society’s celebration of the 75th anniversary of its founding in 1933.

As outlined during an extensive presentation at the conference, eLearning initially encompasses Air Conditioning Fundamentals, Electricity for HVACR Technician, Refrigerant Usage Certification, and Safety for the HVACR Technician - with additional courses to be added later.

Officials were quick to describe eLearning as “a complement to instructor-led training, books, CD-ROMs, and certification preparation materials.”

Executive Vice President Mark Lowry said, “It is not intended to replace face-to-face interaction. It is an additional resource.”

A multi-tiered price structure has been set up with an industry wide standard pricing, a reduced rate for RSES members, and discounts when five or more users are jointly doing a study.

The subscription price tier covers “access to all courses for 12 months, including new courses that are launched during the subscription period,” it was announced. “The material is always there. You can review or redo until you’re ready to take the exam.” Test results are available as soon as the exam is completed.

Course content was described as ranging from simple theory to complex troubleshooting guidance. Among the benefits listed were information in short, digestible chunks; animated graphics and simulations; interactive exercises; and audio.

For more information, visit www.rseselearning.org.

Publication date: 10/13/2008