ATTACHMENT 1-PWS Academic Centers Support Contract.docx

Academic Centers Educational and Research Support Services

Performance Work Statement

Date: 24 Nov 2020

1.0. Introduction. Work is to be accomplished for the U.S. Air Force (USAF) Air University (AU) Air War College (AWC) Academic Centers, USAF Culture and Language Center (AFCLC), USAF Center for Strategic Deterrence Studies (CSDS) and AF Negotiation Center (AFNC), Maxwell Air Force Base (AFB), Alabama, herein referred to as the Client.

1.1. Background. Air University is a major component of Air Education and Training Command (AETC) and is the Air Force’s center for education. AU is the intellectual and leadership development center of the entire AF, providing dynamic comprehensive education to prepare graduates to develop, employ, command, research and champion air, space, and cyberspace power at all levels. As such, AU conducts research in air, space, and cyberspace power, education, and leadership, while also contributing to the development and testing of AF doctrine, concepts, and strategy. Within AU, the Academic Centers undertake significant research on behalf of the AF, the Department of Defense (DoD), and other Government sponsors.

The Academic Centers, subordinate to the Air War College, contribute to AU’s mission to provide the full spectrum of Air Force education, from pre-commissioning to all levels of professional military education (PME), including degree granting and professional continuing education for officers, enlisted, and civilian personnel throughout their careers. AU’s PME programs educate airmen on the capabilities of air and space power and its role in national security. These programs focus on the knowledge and abilities needed to develop, employ, command, and support air, space, and cyberspace power at all levels. Specialized Professional Continuing Education programs provide scientific, technological, managerial, and other professional expertise to meet the needs of the Air Force.

1.2. Mission.

1.2.1. The mission of the AFCLC is to serve as the AF focal point for creating and executing programs that sustain the career-long development of linguistically, regionally, and culturally competent Airmen to meet the Service’s global mission. In addition to providing subject matter expertise and support for Air Force Language, Regional Expertise, and Culture (LREC) governance, the AFCLC designs, develops, and delivers: 1) LREC familiarization education to AU officer, enlisted, and accessions programs; and 2) pre-deployment training and training products; and 3) LREC training, education and sustainment for the GPF and other DoD and USG partners.

1.2.2. The AFNC mission is to develop Air Force Airmen with adaptive conflict management, negotiation, alternate dispute resolution, and mediation skills to succeed in the dynamic, global Air Force mission. The AFNC accomplishes this mission through three areas: teaching, research, and outreach.

1.2.3. The mission of the USAF Center for Strategic Deterrence Studies (CSDS) is to develop Air Force, DoD, and other USG leaders to advance the state of knowledge, policy, and practices within strategic defense issues involving nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons.

1.3. Objective. The objective of this document is to enable the attainment of contractor support for the daily operation of the Client to enable successful achievement of the Academic Centers’ research, education, and training missions.

1.4. Scope. The contractor shall provide support for Client research, program development, instruction, program event support, acquisition management, and management consulting activities in accordance with this PWS.

1.5. Performance Requirements. A workload projection of the requirements described in this section is provided in section 12 of this document for reference purposes. The Client reserves the right to prioritize efforts that may impact the temporal execution of certain activities to address emerging requirements or changes to existing requirements. All such changes will incorporate the same contractor capabilities discussed in this document. The Client will approve the specific planned efforts and recommendations for each of the functional areas prior to the contractor beginning any efforts. In addition, the Client will approve changes to the priorities, levels of effort, etc., within the scope of these requirements.

2.0. Air Force Culture and Language Center (AFCLC) Processes Description. The following are current AFCLC processes and efforts for addressing mission requirements. These are provided for background context and familiarity of existing AFCLC terms.

2.1. AFCLC Courses.

2.1.1. In response to DoD and AF guidance, the AFCLC has developed Residence, Distance Learning, and Blended Learning courses. These courses include the “Introduction to Culture” (ITC), “Introduction to Cross-Cultural Communication” (CCC), Pre-deployment Acculturation Course (PAC), and various AU resident professional military education (PME) courses.

2.1.1.1. Cross-Cultural Competence (3C) Courses are distance-learning courses that provide the principles of culture for immediate use by Airmen. The 3C courses are executed multiple times per year and host hundreds of students per course offering. They each provide college level academic credit (typically 3 hours of social science) that can be applied to the requirements of the Community College of the Air Force’s (CCAF) Associate of Science degree program, are accredited by Southern Association for Colleges and Schools (SACS), and have been successfully transferred to accredited civilian colleges. The 3C courses place an emphasis on student interaction through readings, chat rooms, audio-video content, and simulations. Each course consists of modules, each typically one week in length, that explore subjects such as the features that define a culture, family relationships, religion and belief systems, styles of communicating, resolving problems and making decisions, how one makes a living, sport and recreation, and other important cultural systems. Also included are lessons on behavior and negotiation based on cross-cultural understanding, many reinforced through actual narratives of Airmen’s personal and professional experiences. Course assignments consist of short written assignments (such as chat room thread responses), tests, and projects based on student initiative and creativity. A Ph.D. level instructor/facilitator guides the students through the semester. Courses are offered through the AU Education Management System’s learning management system (currently Canvas) that delivers readings and other course resources/materials. Course sessions are approximately 16 weeks.

NOTE: Additional distance learning courses are planned for the future. Delivery of these courses is expected to be alternated with current course offerings to provide greater variety. These additional courses may vary in credit hour and field of study. Projected duration and course section sizes are anticipated to be similar to existing courses.

2.1.1.2.. PAC is a pre-deployment/assignment acculturation experience hosted, in part, at AFCLC and offered to a small cadre of (usually two to five) general officers and/or senior executives, usually during the first half of the calendar year with occasional ad hoc offerings. AFCLC coordinates with Headquarters Air Forces Directorate of Personnel, General Officer Matters (HAF/DPG) to attempt to have all students attend the course simultaneously within a given year, where possible. The expeditionary pre-deployement training provides 30 hours of formal instruction (15 hours on language and 15 hours on culture/region and negotiation) for up to 5 days, with an option for supplementary learning outside the classroom. Optional pre-attendance instruction is provided via distance learning venues. Significant self-study is required during non-classroom hours. Language instruction is conducted by trained and certified Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center (DLIFLC) personnel. The culture/region curriculum is designed and delivered by AFCLC’s team of in-house faculty experts, with assistance from contractor support and colleagues from across Air University, DLIFLC, and external organizations.

2.2. Language Enabled Airman Program (LEAP) is a USAF-wide foreign language education and training initiative managed by AFCLC. It explicitly targets the Airmen most likely to take the fullest advantage of language education and training, based on a combination of their interest, ability, and demonstrated performance. The objective is to build a pool of language-qualified Airmen across all career fields to augment the smaller cadre of Air Force foreign and computer language professionals and address documented service-wide deficiencies.

2.2.1. e-Mentors. Mentors (called “e-Mentors”) will provide instruction, curricular materials/activities, and diagnostic assessments, as well as promote language interaction among participants in a distance-learning environment (i.e., “the e-Mentor programs”). eMentor is an online, synchronous language education and training system. Airmen are matched with a native language instructor in one-on-one or group classes with other Airmen (same language, similar proficiency level). eMentor courses are tailored to the learning needs of the Airmen, infusing mission-relevant topics. Courses are scheduled in accordance with each Airman’s availability. Priority scheduling is afforded to LEAP scholars, based on training need. eMentor courses are provided to FAOs and partner organizations as required.

2.2.2. Immersions. Immersions provide participants with intense language, regional, and cultural experiences, typically in an overseas setting. Types of immersions arranged by LEAP include, but are not limited to:

2.2.2.1. Language Intensive Training Events (LITE). LITEs are scheduled in accordance with each LEAP participant’s training need and availability. LITEs are provided to LEAP participants approximately every three to four years. These immersions last 4-6 weeks and are conducted in a member’s LEAP language environment. Continental US (CONUS) LITEs are held in the US for beginner language speakers. Overseas Traditional (OT) LITEs are held overseas in a home stay setting with a language school component. Overseas Advanced (OA) LITEs are held overseas in a variety of formats that may include a university-based area studies immersion, translation and interpretation workshop, or bilateral training event. The focus for CONUS and OT LITEs is language, regional, and cultural capabilities acquisition. The focus of OA LITEs is language, regional, and cultural application.

NOTE: Annual LITE throughput ranges from 400 to 800 persons per year depending on demand and course funding.

2.2.2.2. In Region Training (IRT). IRT immersions are mandated by the office of the Secretary of the Air Force for International Affairs (SAF/IA) to develop pipeline Foreign Area Officers (FAOs). The AFCLC crafts language and culture (LC) education and Strategic Engagement (SE) training at US Embassies for approximately 60 FAOs per year. IRTs last up to six months and consist of a combination of LC and SE courses in the target region.

2.2.2.3. Language and Area Studies (LASI). LASIs sustain and enhance FAO LREC skills. Similar to OT LITEs, LASIs typically consist of a homestay and language school, organized by the AFCLC.

2.2.3. Language Enabled Airmen Development Resource (LEADeR) system (Monitoring/Tracking System Support). As part of managing language education and training, the Air Force requires robust, reliable tools to identify and assess qualified Airmen with language skills, identifying them for future employment or additional training. These tools and processes, needed to identify Airmen who qualify for Special Experience Identifiers (SEI) and to meet language-capable Airmen demands across Air Force specialties, are consolidated into a single government-owned capability set known as LEADeR. This system will be used to track LEAP scholars, FAOs, and all language course participants coordinated by partner organizations. This system is also used to manage training and connect AFCLC staff with course participants and training partners.

2.2.4. LEAP Boards. AFCLC conducts periodic LEAP boards to select qualified participants from a pool of volunteer Airmen, across all non-language professional career fields to meet existing and potential requirements.

2.3. Expeditionary Programs. The Client has the responsibility to define, develop, coordinate, synchronize, and provide expeditionary training products and capabilities for Air Force units to address both known requirements as well as emerging short-notice deployment tasking requirements from the unit to major command (MAJCOM) level. Some examples of Expeditionary Programs currently offered by the Client are the Culture General and Culture Specific computer-based training (CBT) courses delivered via the Advanced Distributed Learning System (ADLS), Expeditionary Culture Field Guides (ECFGs) delivered via print, web-based media and mobile application, the Regional Expertise Program (to be developed), and the Pre-deployment/Assignment Acculturation Course (PAC).

2.3.1. Expeditionary Skills (ES) Computer-Based Training (CBT). These activities include but not limited to providing the required regional expertise in conducting revisions to existing Culture General and Culture Specific Courses and the development of new courseware in concert with Client-assigned and/or external SMEs. The requirement also involves providing IT technical support in delivering these courses through the Air Force’s web-based learning management system (currently ADLS).

2.3.2. Expeditionary Culture Field Guides. ECFGs are compact, pocket sized resources designed to prepare Airmen and other US military forces for deployment to culturally complex global environments. The Client develops 5-10 new guides annually, monitors and maintains content currency for all published versions (e.g. print, electronic, mobile app), and provides them to both domestic and overseas units (see Appendix 3 Field Guide Development Process).

2.3.3. ECFG Mobile Application. The Client maintains a mobile application that allows members across DoD and other government agencies to download any or all ECFGs using the Apple iOS (iPhone, iPad) and Google Android. The application provides for a data collection system, a content management system, personalized RSS feeds, and a variety of downloadable resources. The application is delivered via the Apple App Store platform for iPhone and iPad and Google Play Store for Android.

2.3.4. Regional Expertise Program. This initiative addresses the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) intent to develop Airmen with regional expertise via education and employment in a selected region throughout their careers. It accounts for the complexities/challenges of identifying and educating a diverse workforce with regional expertise and cultural competency to support a wide range of Air Force/DoD missions and priorities. It employs AFCLC’s scalable learning framework and prepares officers to move in and out of regionally-focused assignments while preserving viability for promotion and command.

2.4. Cultural Studies Project (CSP) is a project designed to capture and analyze ethnographic narratives, interviews, and surveys of Airmen and others through various methods, including participant-observation at deployed locations, to augment the four main pillars of the AFCLC mission (education, training, research, and strategy/policy formulation). The CSP will need to identify and recruit deployed and post-deployed forces to draw upon their experiences. The Culture Division, with input from the Center Director and assigned faculty, will decide priority of effort and support needed. The ethnographic data will be captured in written, audio, and/or video form and will inform center products. One such product will be video-recorded narratives accompanied by analysis, lessons learned commentary and an interactive potential for readers, listeners, or viewers.

3.0. Air Force Negotiation Center (AFNC) Processes Description. The following are current AFNC processes and efforts for addressing mission requirements. These are provided for background context and familiarity of existing AFNC terms.

3.1. The AFNC researches, designs, and delivers situationally and culturally adaptive education and training in negotiation and mediation methods and techniques that fosters collaborative relationships, builds partnerships, and finds interagency solutions. In fulfilling its mission, AFNC develops, updates, and executes across the entire range of residence and distance learning (both synchronous and asynchronous) courses, modules, and exercises. The use of educational technology leverages Air University and contractor resources to engage students in VTC, webinar, and/or computer-based instruction. When requested, the AFNC may deploy mobile training teams.

4.0. USAF Center for Strategic Deterrence Studies (CSDS). The following are current CSDS processes and efforts for addressing current mission requirements. These are provided for background context and familiarity of existing CSDS terms.

4.1. Provide nuclear enterprise and weapons of mass destruction (WMD)-related curriculum and faculty development to AU and other DoD educators.

4.2 Develop and manage nuclear enterprise professional continuing education (e.g., Deterrence Basic Course).

4.3. Conduct research on nuclear operations and WMD topics relevant to the AF and others in the US national security community.

4.4. Publish books and occasional papers on nuclear operations and WMD issues.

4.5. Organize relevant conferences and workshops on nuclear operations and WMD issues.

4.6. Provide outreach products such as a weekly newsletter and Twitter feeds.

5.0. RESERVED

6.0. Academic Centers Functions/Requirements. The Academic Centers accomplish their missions through the following functional areas. The contractor shall perform the requirements listed below.

NOTE: All contractor-developed courseware, course support and database management capabilities, research reports, assessments, and outreach media, will comply with Shareable Content Object Reference Model [SCORM] and Section 508 requirements as applicable, as per the performance standards listed in Paragraph 9, Service Summary.

6.1. Program Support. The contractor shall provide overall program management support to ensure that the requirements of the contract are accomplished. In addition, program support personnel shall:

6.1.1. Perform project management/process improvement activities, such as creating work breakdown structures/project plans and providing recommendations and implementation on the viability of new technologies to improve process effectiveness and efficiency.

6.1.2. Maintain documentation for standard operating procedures (SOP) necessary to execute program support activities in accordance with a continuity of operations plan. The contractor will provide a current version of this documentation that reflects current procedures to the Centers in standard electronic format semi-annually, with the last provision occurring no later than one week prior to the end of the period of performance. (A001)

6.1.3. Meet regularly with the Client to provide a suspense and activity summary of the past period’s contractor efforts, discuss and coordinate timelines for deliverables for existing and upcoming tasks, and address any other pertinent issues regarding contract support and execution. The Client will approve the specific planned efforts and recommendations for each of the functional areas prior to the contractor beginning these efforts. In addition, the Client will approve changes to the priorities, levels of effort, etc., within the scope of these requirements.

6.1.4. Provide inputs for, participate in, and execute guidance from organizational groups (e.g. Configuration Control Board (CCB), Analytics Requirements Panel (ARP), etc.) implementing agile management principles to apply limited contractor and Client resources efficiently to evolving mission requirements.

6.1.5. Adjust and/or re-prioritize contractor efforts per Client direction within the scope of these requirements.

6.2. Curriculum Development. The contractor shall design, prepare and maintain programs (e.g. in-residence, distance learning, blended learning formats, etc.) required for the civilian, enlisted and officer education continua, including expeditionary Airman requirements in the appropriate subject areas (e.g. Language, Region, Culture, and Negotiation (LRCN); regionally enabled professionals, etc.) by performing the following activities:

6.2.1. Develop and/or modify courses per Instructional System Development (ISD) guidelines on designated subject areas to be used in education and training conducted in a formal classroom setting, to include activities such as developing/modifying teaching plans, course outlines, case studies, exercises, simulations and faculty development materials, reviewing/updating course syllabi, identifying and incorporating reference materials, etc.; support development with a detailed management plan (schedule, cost, and performance); author curriculum and/or support curriculum development by providing support to review, validate, research, and update both residence and distance/blended learning materials; organize, story-board, design, and implement course materials; provide support with on-site personnel and/or subject matter experts (SME).

6.2.2. Develop course enhancements for current and emerging courses as subject matter dictates.

6.2.3. Address the technical and education challenges encountered with distance learning that limit the true value to the end-student, and work with the curriculum media/technology development/support function to incorporate media and technology products and capabilities to maximize learning effectiveness.

6.2.4. Identify and arrange for speakers to facilitate research or education; use subject matter experts, databases, and other sources to identify speakers for relevant topics; plan and execute the logistics of obtaining and hosting appropriate speakers; evaluate speakers; and prepare after-action reports.

6.2.5. Use the full capability of knowledge/course/learning management systems and instructional strategies to provide robust educational opportunities such as scenario-based learning, simulations and gaming, analytical problem solving, social processing and team collaboration, critical thinking exercises, and other strategies for academic degree granting and continuing professional education courses.

6.2.6. Assist the Assessments function with comprehensive assessments of education and training courses created or managed by the Client.

6.2.7. Provide assistance with securing and documenting permissions and rights for the Client’s courses and course resources. The contractor shall use Client-directed information systems (e.g. the Client is currently using Canvas and ADLS) to ensure timely and accurate execution of course support from course registration through graduation.

6.2.8. Formulate tailored training plans to meet requirements for unit level and above.

6.2.9. Provide inputs for, participate in, and execute guidance from periodic Curriculum Development Requirements Panel (CDRP) process. (A002)

6.2.10. Produce content which adheres to broadly accepted ethical academic integrity standards (e.g. AETCI 36-2909, 2nd AF Supplement: Recruiting, Education, Accessions, and Training Standards of Conduct). Identify and address instances of content which fails to uphold these standards.

6.3. Curriculum Media/Technology Development/Support. The contractor shall design, prepare and maintain a variety of products which support the Client and its programs. These products may be incorporated into the Client’s in-residence, distance learning, and blended learning courses required for the civilian, enlisted and officer education continua, as well as courses required for expeditionary Airmen. The contractor shall use Client-directed information systems (e.g. the Client is currently using Canvas and ADLS) to ensure timely and accurate execution of course support from course registration through graduation. The contractor shall:

6.3.1. Identify and develop media and related technology solutions to meet education needs or fill instructional gaps. Technologies might include, but are not limited to, voice-centered technologies such as compact disc (CD); web casts; instructional videos, digital video disc (DVD), interactive videoconferencing; virtual classroom environment delivered over the internet/intranet, and mobile applications, using some combination of video, audio, computer animation, multimedia, communications, etc.

6.3.2. Develop and produce educational products, which may include (but are not limited to) print, ebook, audio, audiovisual, multimedia, web, or other format products, and/or integrate existing materials into other educational media (e.g., in-residence to distance/blended learning).

6.3.3. Convert paper-based and/or in-residence courses into engaging, interactive, on-line, or blended learning formats.

6.3.4. Provide technical assistance in developing and integrating interactive media into computer-based (currently delivered via ADLS and Canvas) or other appropriate electronic methods. This contract support will include technical quality control of content delivery to ensure regulatory compliance. The contractor will facilitate the deployment of courses on the learning management system (or other appropriate platform) server and will coordinate technical matters with the servicing Help Desk.

6.3.5. Provide technical assistance in developing methods to collect, track, analyze and report student performance data in courses delivered by AFCLC (e.g. 3C course participation and performance).

6.3.6. Maintain mobile app and content management system (CMS) functionality (e.g. compatibility with operating system updates, remediation of evolving system issues, etc.) and provide mobile application and CMS improvements (e.g. introduction of new features, addition of new content, etc.) as needed or as directed by the Client.

6.3.7. Assist the Client with developing overarching lesson objectives for various types of immersions. These lesson objectives will provide a roadmap to the student and language vendor to achieving successful learning outcomes during the immersion.

6.3.8. Provide inputs for, participate in, and execute guidance from periodic Curriculum Development Requirements Panel (CDRP) process. (A002)

6.3.9. Provide inputs for and participate in periodic Analytics Requirements Panel (ARP) process. (A011)

6.4. Student Management & Oversight – On-Line 3C Courses. The contractor shall provide management and oversight of AFCLC-led on-line courses using existing AU information systems to ensure timely and accurate execution of AFCLC course support from course registration through graduation. The contractor will be responsible for supporting the execution of four to six sections of each Distance Learning course per year. The contractor shall perform:

6.4.1. Enrollment activities (such as interfacing with the registrar function, organizing course details in information management systems, gathering student information and creating/maintaining student information databases, and interfacing with students of interest in resolving stand-by lists to maximize course enrollment).

6.4.2. Help Desk activities (such as responding to and addressing student issues and concerns pertaining to the courses, enrollment, and access).

6.4.3. Performance Monitoring activities (such as maintaining awareness of student participation activity patterns by monitoring student statistics via information systems [such as accessing and capturing information from electronic grade book software and formatting for internal use and monitoring]).

6.4.4. Student Retention activities (such as interfacing with individual students of relevance to encourage their continued participation and course completion).

6.4.5. Grade Reporting activities (such as verifying grade accuracy in information systems as reported to the registrar and ensuring the registrar receives all grades for students as earned).

6.5. Center Liaison Support. The contractor shall provide off-site liaison and program support, typically in the language and unconventional warfare mission areas, as approved by the Client. This support includes:

6.5.1. Attendance of meetings, presentations, workshops, and other events as a representative of the Client’s community of interest (e.g., in the Washington, DC area, for the Action Panels, or Executive Steering Groups).

6.5.2. Networking with sponsors and other institutions.

6.5.3. Providing written reports of each liaison activity within two weeks of occurrence. (A003)

6.6. Language Program and Participant Support. The contractor shall:

6.6.1. Assist the Client with developing language capability throughout the force to meet Air Force requirements by:

6.6.1.1. Maintaining awareness of Air Force language education and training requirements for which the Client is responsible.

6.6.1.2. Providing program records management, course oversight, and customer service to Airmen participating in programs such as LEAP and FAO.

6.6.1.3. Identifying language requirements and gaps in the language participant inventory and making recommendations on program selection and cross-training actions to the Client.

6.6.1.4. Monitoring language test scores and other progress checks and advising Airmen of strategies and practices to help them meet program education and training expectations.

6.6.1.5. Reviewing and making recommendations to the Client regarding the employment of various governmentally and commercially available language resources and practices.

6.6.1.6. Identifying, recommending, and implementing viable new technologies and capabilities to improve process effectiveness and efficiency.

6.6.1.7. Preparing responses for the Client to address force managers’ requests for language program participant record data.

6.6.1.8. Providing scheduling, protocol, and logistical support for special language training events hosted by the AFCLC.

6.6.2. Assist Client with the preparation and execution of periodic LEAP Boards to select qualified participants from a pool of USAF Airmen by:

6.6.2.1. Drafting, coordinating approval, and advertising annual board schedule and application requirements.

6.6.2.2. Processing electronically received applications and prescreening applications against established requirements.

6.6.2.3. Assisting commanders, supervisors and applicants with the application process, as needed.

6.6.2.4. Facilitating board preparation in accordance with Client guidelines to include inviting board members, planning protocol and logistics, and developing slides.

6.6.2.5. Orchestrating language requirements matching, final selection, HAF/A1 approval, and notification to applicants, commanders, supervisors and other appropriate agencies.

6.6.2.6. Updating and disseminating on-boarding guidance for newly selected LEAP scholars.

6.6.3. Assist the AFCLC with oversight and governance of language program participants. This will include, but not be limited to:

6.6.3.1. Drafting or updating language course guidance and program expectations for Client review and dissemination.

6.6.3.2. Vectoring participants to accomplishing and maintaining currency in all training events and requirements.

6.6.3.3. Updating and maintaining the Language Enabled Airman Development Resource (LEADeR) tracking/monitoring database with current details of Airmen’s foreign language skills and demographics.

6.6.3.4. Answering language program participants’ training, policy, and other inquiries through e-mail, phone, and/or web services; documenting correspondence; responding to customer concerns and questions within 72 business hours of receipt; and forwarding complex inquiries to Client, as needed.

6.6.3.5. Executing LEAP special experience identifier (SEI) reviews; certifying AF Forms 2096 for Client signature; forwarding copies to Air Force Personnel Center; and adding or removing SEIs in participants' military personnel records.

6.6.4. Schedule participants and track course completion for online and immersion courses by:

6.6.4.1. Implementing Client policies and procedures regarding the prioritization, selection and scheduling of participants for LITEs, IRTs, eMentor online courses, and other courses.

6.6.4.2. Recommending usage of specific program types and locations based on participants’ language test scores, regional experience, and professional goals.

6.6.4.3. Placing participants in courses consistent with participants’ proficiency levels.

6.6.4.4. Utilizing LEADeR to track, enforce and recommend action to Client regarding course acknowledgement, attendance, completion, etc.

6.6.4.5. Coordinating the Client's training requirements and participant rosters with approved language program vendors.

6.6.4.6. Developing and maintaining current country and program handbooks, pamphlets, and web-based materials that address immersion program expectations and aid successful completion of the immersion.

6.6.4.7. Reviewing and taking action on external training partners’ requests (exercise, mobile training team, document translation, etc.) based on the Client's guidance, priorities, and procedures.

6.6.4.8. Documenting course completion in LEADeR and the appropriate system of record.

6.6.5. Oversee and guide Airmen’s preparations for immersion travel by:

6.6.5.1. Liaising with language vendors, embassy personnel, and other training partner POCs on behalf of the Client regarding country clearance and force protection requirements, travel arrangements, and details of the immersion.

6.6.5.2. Advising participants on Foreign Clearance Guide and Defense Travel System (DTS) matters and reviewing participants’ DTS documents for accuracy and travel regulation compliance.

6.6.5.3. Overseeing and tracking participant completion of country clearance and status protections paperwork and updating embassy-approved tracking systems such as the Aircraft and Personnel Automated Clearance System (APACS) to document theater and country clearance approval.

6.6.5.4. Utilizing LEADeR to track daily personnel accountability.

6.6.5.5. Apprising Client of any personal, informational or operational safety concerns that have impacted or could potentially impact immersion participants.

6.6.5.6. Performing pre- and post-travel immersion activities, such as conducting surveys and after-action reports, and consolidating information gathered from immersion participants, and/or similar administrative processes.

6.6.5.7. Provide required, timely, and accurate inputs (e.g. travel preparation and logistics, student safety and accountability, program scheduling, etc.) into the LEADER system. (A004)

6.7. System and Database Management. The contractor shall maintain, modify, and upgrade the LEADeR Database to have the ability to track and maintain awareness of specific education and training events. LEADeR system and database management shall include but is not limited to:

6.7.1. Coding/modifying software, developing test scripts, and implementing testing protocols (e.g. regression testing, end-user validation, etc.) based on Client input.

6.7.2. Managing data to ensure redundancy, currency and integrity of participant records.

6.7.3. Facilitating the upload of pertinent data from AF-level personnel data management systems (e.g., the Military Personnel Data System [MilPDS], the eMentor program, the Defense Manpower Data Center [DMDC])

6.7.4. Implementing and maintaining network security measures to safeguard the privacy and security of participant records in accordance with Air Force guidelines.

6.7.5. Maintaining an awareness of Air Force communications, cyber security, and other relevant guidelines to ensure database compliance at all times.

6.7.6. Providing specialized as well as self-service reporting capability to the Client and training partners.

6.7.7. Creating and modifying accounts and data profiles for program staff and participants, metrics reporting, and data query development.

6.7.8. Recommending changes to LEADeR and tracking / managing Client change requests in the interest of process improvement and utilization of the latest technologies.

6.7.9. Providing inputs for, participating in, and executing guidance from monthly Configuration Control Boards (CCB). (A005)

6.8. Technology Support (Education Management Systems, Website, Ed Tech). The contractor shall:

6.8.1. EMS/Website Maintenance. Perform internet/intranet information support activities for the Client that include: (A006)

6.8.1.1. Develop and maintain web-based products and capabilities.

6.8.1.2. Perform web server administration to maintain timely and accurate information pertaining to the Client’s efforts.

6.8.1.3. Conduct web site development and performance monitoring, to include, but not be limited to:

(1) static data files, video files, audio files, repository, current outreach products, links to other reference web resources, and workshop information (as applicable).

(2) performance monitoring

(3) quarterly review of all website content to ensure material is the most current information available, and provide a content status as part of the Monthly Status Report (reference section 8.1). (A006, A014)

6.8.2. Perform information management support activities for the Client that include activities such as the development of applications to store, access, retrieve, and archive electronic data used in academic events, classes, seminars, and associated activities.

NOTE: Canvas is the current primary learning management system.

6.8.3. Develop and maintain an interactive training/product request system/form for customers to use notify the Client of desired products related to the Client’s missions and responsibilities. (A007)

6.8.4. Identify, recommend, and implement viable new technologies and capabilities to improve process effectiveness and efficiency.

6.8.5. Perform graphic design functions to enhance appearance of web site and other products.

6.8.6. Education Technology. The contractor shall:

6.8.6.1. Act as the unit equipment custodian for oversight and accountability of Computer/information system equipment in accordance with AFI 33-112.

6.8.6.2. Ensure that network and web-based education resources are consistently accessible for students and faculty.

6.8.6.3. Identify, recommend, and implement viable new education technologies and capabilities to improve learning efficiency and effectiveness.

6.8.6.4. Implement education technology solutions using equipment and resources provided by the Client.

6.9. Research. Within five working days of request by the Client, the contractor shall provide subject matter experts up to and including the doctorate level (via reach-back if appropriate) to perform research that the Client will use to develop policy and strategy on topics specifically requested by the Client. (See PWS section 1.2) The contractor shall:

6.9.1. Analyze specific subject areas by researching issues of interest for the Client, as related to their chartered missions.

6.9.2. Research Issues of Interest: Conduct research on broad cultural, regional, language, negotiation, and nuclear deterrence topics. Identify the competencies needed in these areas for students to meet current and future tactical, operational, and strategic requirements, the current shortfalls, and courses of action to address those shortfalls.

6.9.3. RESERVED.

6.9.4. Provide support to Client staff, to include providing research assistance oversight to students and faculty. The focus of research assistance oversight will be on enhancing competencies of students and faculty members as future tactical, operational, and/or strategic leaders or professors of future leaders, and also to enhance faculty and students’ success in producing a high quality research product, enhance their understanding of the importance of independent research, and enhance their understanding of new operational and strategic areas that they have been researching. For all research efforts, the contractor shall provide assistance to staff/faculty performing research, as needed, to include:

6.9.4.1. Identifying relevant research topics.

6.9.4.2. Performing baseline research of databases or libraries.

6.9.4.3. Performing interviews.

6.9.4.4. Synthesizing data into meaningful tables, charts, and/or reports.

6.9.5. Evaluate, grade, and provide feedback to students and staff/faculty as to the quality of their research work. The contractor shall facilitate group research projects through mentoring, group guidance, facilitation of resource availability, and brainstorming groups and research sessions.

6.9.6. Work with Client personnel to identify and collaborate with other academic research organizations and sources of subject matter expertise to coordinate and share research of interest related to appropriate Center requirements (e.g., cross-cultural competence (3C) for AFCLC or Counter-WMD/nuclear deterrence for CSDS).

6.9.7. Perform research, coordination, and consolidation to assist with the formulation of tailored training plans to meet requirements ranging from Unit to MAJCOM level.

6.9.8. RESERVED.

6.9.9. Facilitate group research projects through mentoring, group guidance, facilitation of resource availability, and brainstorming groups and research sessions.

6.9.10. Deliver cultural training according to parameters established via requests made to the AFCLC by units requiring the training and other emerging requirements.

6.9.11. Deliver research reports properly addressing assigned topics with relevant supporting references and materials within the deadlines established by the Client. (A008)

6.10. Subject Matter Expertise. The contractor shall provide personnel with post-graduate level subject matter expertise (preferably on-site, but via reach-back if appropriate) to create academic content, course materials and educational products to support mission areas or topics specifically requested by the Client for delivery to its students.

6.10.1. Create academic content in cooperation with researchers, curriculum developers, and adjunct instructors.

6.11. Administration Support. The contractor shall perform administrative support to facilitate accomplishment of the Client’s missions:

6.11.1. Maintain oversight of events relevant to the Client, coordinate schedules, and perform organizational calendar maintenance for Client personnel and contractors in support of projects, including travel to and attendance at other conferences or meetings, and prepare and support associated travel materials using Client tools such as the Defense Travel System (DTS).

6.11.2. Participate in meetings, reviews, briefings, and teleconferences and prepare slides, agendas, minutes, and other administrative products using the software that the Centers are using (Note: the Client is currently using Microsoft Office products including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel).

6.11.3. Support daily operations through various activities including: preparing correspondences, responding to organizational e-mail requests for materials and information, performing records management activities, coordinating with AU and other organizations for materials and support, answering phones, and other staff actions.

6.11.4. Input, update, copyedit and publish materials as necessary for new and existing ECFG’s using the content management system (CMS).

6.11.5. Requirements Support. The contractor shall perform administrative support to facilitate accomplishment of the Client’s missions. Activities include providing executive, transcription and record-keeping assistance and support, organizing and archiving academic research information, and/or similar research administrative activities, and perform normal coordination and support activities for the Client on a daily basis in direct support of task order requirements, to include the following (or similar) types of activities and efforts:

6.11.6.1. Proofread/edit selected papers, articles, monographs, electronic articles or books, as well as documents in support of specific projects, summary guides, and smart cards suitable for expeditionary operations on items of interest.

6.11.6.2. Customize automated searches for research.

6.11.6.3. Provide background information on issues of interest.

6.11.6.4. Gather/capture data and update subject matter databases.

6.11.6.5. Perform librarian functions for subject matter databases.

6.11.6.6. Develop search methods for review of subject matter databases.

6.11.6.7. Perform administrative preparatory and execution efforts for PAC.

6.11.6.9. Review, coordinate, and update applicable memoranda of agreement (MOA) and memoranda of understanding (MOU).

6.11.6.10. Develop and maintain reference materials to include approved cultural information, lessons, education, and courses available from various sources (e.g., a joint catalog of culture products available from the greater Department of Defense, Interagency, and educational communities accessible in electronic format and via network media to target audience). (A009)

6.11.6.11. Assist the centers’ support to higher headquarters planning.

6.11.6.12. Identify, recommendation, and implement viable new technologies and capabilities to improve process effectiveness and efficiency.

6.11.6.13. Develop and administer a participant management system for candidates enrolled in emerging programs (e.g. regional expertise program, computer language initiative).

6.11.7. Event Support. The contractor shall:

6.11.7.1. Provide a full range of event support to the Client, both on-site and off-site, to ensure a seamless flow of activities for academic related events such as conferences, workshops, meetings, courses, colloquia, war-games, seminars, and symposia.

6.11.7.2. Perform key activities such as: planning, marketing, organizing, inviting attendees, making travel arrangements, protocol arrangements, securing a site and site preparation, preparing course handouts/binders, audio-visual support, and catering services/light refreshments.

6.11.7.3. Prepare final after-event reports (A010).

6.11.7.4. PAC. Provide administrative support in publishing schedules, syllabi, and GO biographies; conduct classroom and DV lounge setup; acquire and replenish DV lounge refreshments throughout the week; conduct daily and post-course cleanup of facilities; assemble classroom visual aids and supplies; and assist the course director with miscellaneous administrative activities as needed.

NOTE: Multiple events with an attendance of up to 500 persons are expected during each period of performance.

6.12. Assessments/Analytics. Successful course development and execution depends on robust assessment/analytical processes. The Client conducts educational program, individual, and course effectiveness assessment/analytical activities for courses to measure student changes in both the cognitive and affective domains. The contractor shall:

6.12.1. Perform assessment/analytical support to include administering, collecting and analyzing assessment data (such as demographic surveys, pre- and post-course attitudinal surveys, pre-course tests, situational judgment tests, exit surveys, and end of course surveys) for events such as courses, LEAP boards/participation, e-Mentor interactions, LITEs, CSP AFNC events, and other emerging requirements. The contractor will also identify performance trends and indicators, to include accessing and analyzing data for significant course periods (e.g., the first and second half performance periods of the ITC and CCC courses, eMentor windows and LEAP performance trends). The contractor shall conduct course effectiveness assessments and provide the Client end of course feedback and all other assessment analysis data within six weeks of the defined assessment period and/or end of the course, as requested by Client. Based on data discovery, the contractor shall modify presentation format and recommend curriculum or program updates to correspond to education levels necessary for target audience.

6.12.3. Validate cross-cultural competencies to be used to provide cultural guidance to AU schools (including by considering minutes captured from pertinent accessible research focus groups).

6.12.4. Assist the Client in conducting comprehensive assessments/analysis of education and training courses created or managed by the Client.

6.12.5 Assist the Client in conducting on-going psychometric (e.g., reliability and validity analyses), longitudinal, multivariate, and nonparametric analyses using sophisticated statistical, measurement and programmatic assessment techniques and manage large databases in Excel/SPSS. These activities involve statistics and measurement techniques with applied or experimental data such as by conducting laboratory or field research and/or working on applied projects focused on collecting, analyzing, and reporting data.

6.12.6. Coordinate/schedule PAC assessments activities with the course director and academic advisor. These activities include, but are not limited to, conducting assessment interviews and collecting formal documentation throughout the PAC execution period; compiling draft assessments after-action report (AAR) in coordination with the course director and academic advisor; and making recommendations to the AFCLC staff and faculty based upon assessment findings.

6.12.7. Identify, recommend, and implement viable new analytic techniques and capabilities to improve program efficiency and learning effectiveness.

6.12.8. Provide inputs for, participate in, and execute guidance from periodic Analytics Requirements Panel (ARP) process. (A011)

6.12.9. Access and utilize LEADeR to gather information for post-course assessments, language score analysis, and other purposes.

6.12.10. Be familiar with database design tools (i.e., Hadoop, Pig, Hive, SQL,…