The audience I would present my training methods, would be the governing body that issues certifications for firefighting, city counsel who would fund the training and future fire department leadership.

The 3 methods of technology-based training methods would be Computer based training (CBT), Blended learning, and Virtual reality (simulation).

1) CBT can be effective because students are able to work at their own pace

2) Blended learning, so students can apply the information learned online in real world application.

3) Virtual reality to simulate emergencies without the physical danger, fatigue, and no risk involved.

Pros- Work at you own pace, able to provide visuals you might not be able to show in real world application, build large pool of questions.

Cons- Limited realism to some students, not the ideal method of instruction in a "blue collar" job.

The Department of Defense firefighters use CBT's for many certifications/courses and it has been cost effective, able to work on training while at home and remote locations, shows hard to create training in limited budget locations.

Pros- Allows student to engage with instructor, ability to apply knowledge and techniques, allows students to ask questions in difficult areas and discuss with instructor.

Cons- Have to schedule a good classroom time, locate and purchase training location and equipment, hire a team of instructors.

Many fire departments utilize blended learning where the student takes an online course then has to be evaluated on the learned material and apply it for remainder of their career. It's an effective learning model and can be used in more basic firefighting courses.

Pros- Provides training without physical hazards, controlled environment with real life like consequences, adaptive and interactive

Cons- High cost, time to build software, students can get complacent.

I have no personal experience with this but I think it can be beneficial by using real life tactics in a virtual world without the hazards and physical fatigue. Also can be controlled and monitored by the instructor to ensure proper application.

Blended Learning- https://www.fireengineering.com/apparatus-equipment/tech-zone/blended-hybrid-learning-in-the-fire-department/#gref

Virtual Reality- https://flaimsystems.com/

Overall all methods are extremely cost effective and significantly reduce the wear and tear on tools and equipments. Also ensure a safe training environment that capitalizes on the new generations technical savviness.

I would implement this training by using a couple test students to gauge the level of effectiveness and likeness. Once I receive informative feedback and work out issues, I'll fully implement the training methods.