Section R. 29.415 - Alternative learning platformsRule 15.
(1) The state fire marshal, with the approval of the council, may endorse the implementation of alternative learning platforms, including, but not limited to, online learning, distance learning, or similar council approved methods.(2) An alternative learning platform must be sponsored by a recognized regional training center or requested by a county training committee chairperson. Either entity shall be responsible for instructor training and online delivery support for instructors and students. Alternative learning platforms must utilize a council-approved curriculum electronic learning management system.(3) The initial delivery of an alternative learning platform shall be a pilot program and be pre-approved by the council. Bureau staff may evaluate the pilot program in order to provide a report to the council. All of the following apply to alternative learning platforms: (a) Upon review of a report from the instructors and the course manager, including written feedback from all of the instructors and students and a positive recommendation from the regional coordinator, the state fire marshal, with council approval, may approve future courses.(b) All alternative learning platforms for classification certification shall meet all NFPA standards for that certification.(c) All alternative learning platforms shall consist of the following: (i)The same learning objectives as a face-to-face training format.(ii) A maximum student-to-instructor ratio for hands-on practical components of a course of 5 students to 1 instructor.(4) An individual who attends a council-approved alternative learning platform online course and wants to qualify for a certification examination shall comply with both of the following:(a) An individual shall meet 90% of the lecture hours and 100% of the practical skills hours. A course manager shall enforce the bureau make up policy.(b) An individual who completes make up training at his or her fire department or public safety department shall complete the bureau's Make Up Training form, BFS-256, for each make-up session authorized by the course manager. The fire chief or public safety director shall sign the form and return the form to the course manager for inclusion in the final course paperwork submitted to the bureau via email.Mich. Admin. Code R. 29.415
1981 AACS; 2016 AACS; 2021 MR 21, Eff. 11/3/2021