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Learning Design Two

Lifeguard instructors regularly incorporate technology into their training practices. By aligning these practices with relevant safety and instructional standards, instructors can create meaningful assessments to better prepare lifeguards for real-world scenarios.

Learning Outcomes

  • Lifeguards will use Pectora to enhance participation in in-service training by accessing, completing, and reviewing skill-building modules, drills, and performance data.

  • Lifeguards will engage with Pectora to track individual and team progress, provide peer feedback, and support continuous improvement through data-driven insights during in-service training.

Challenges

As lifeguard teams grow increasingly reliant on traditional, repetitive in-service training formats, maintaining engagement, tracking individual progress, and delivering targeted feedback can become difficult, especially across large or varied staff groups. Without consistent performance data and personalized development tools, training may lose its effectiveness and fail to address individual or team-specific skill gaps. By integrating Pectora into in-service training, aquatics professionals can streamline content delivery, monitor lifeguard readiness in real time, and use video, performance analytics, and peer feedback features to create dynamic, data-driven training environments that support continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Standards

ISTE Student Standard:

1.5.b Data Sets

Students collect data or identify relevant data sets, use digital tools to analyze them, and represent data in various ways to facilitate problem-solving and decision-making.

Ellis and Associates ILTP Standard

In-Service Training Requirements

Pectora is a powerful in-service training platform that helps lifeguards and leadership teams plan, track, and assess performance with precision. By using Pectora to assign skill drills, review video feedback, and document participation, teams ensure that every lifeguard remains rescue-ready every shift, every day. Consistent use of Pectora during in-service training supports accountability, reinforces critical skills, and builds confidence in lifeguard teams.

Assessment Plan:
In-Service Training Using Pectora

  • Individual Module Completion in Pectora
    Lifeguards will independently complete their assigned monthly in-service training modules using Pectora. These modules may include video demonstrations, scenario-based learning, and knowledge checks covering key skills such as CPR, rescue breathing, spinal injury management, and emergency action plan review. Lifeguards are expected to complete all components within the monthly training schedule and demonstrate retention through built-in assessments.

  • Personal Performance Review and Digital Reflection
    After completing the modules, each lifeguard will review their personal performance data within Pectora (module scores, video submissions, instructor comments, time on task). Using this information, the lifeguard will complete a short written or video reflection submitted through the platform. The reflection should include:

    • Key takeaways from the training

    • Areas of strength and improvement

    • How the training connects to real-world responsibilities

    • Personal goals for the next in-service cycle

    • This step encourages individual accountability and self-directed development.

  • Rubric-Based Instructor Evaluation
    Instructors will use a detailed checklist within Pectora to assess:

    • Completion and accuracy of required training modules

    • Engagement with performance data and self-assessment

    • Depth and clarity of individual reflection

    • Demonstrated understanding of core rescue and emergency response skills

  • Optional feedback will be provided by instructors to guide the lifeguard’s progress in future trainings. Continued use of Pectora ensures all performance data is documented, measurable, and easily referenced over time.

The Activity

Complete Monthly In-Service Modules

Using the Ellis & Associates Pectora platform, lifeguards will complete their assigned monthly in-service training modules. These may include CPR refreshers, submerged victim scenarios, spinal management, and other critical rescue skills. Focus on completing each module accurately and thoroughly, with attention to skill demonstrations, quizzes, and video submissions when required.

  • Evaluate Personal Performance
    After completing the modules, lifeguards will review their individual performance data within Pectora, including:

    • Quiz and assessment scores

    • Instructor feedback or video reviews

    • Time spent on each module

    • Completion status for assigned training

Reflect on what skills you performed well and where improvement is needed. Identify any trends in your performance across multiple modules.

  • Develop a Personal Improvement Plan
    Using insights from your performance data and self-reflection, create a Personal Improvement Plan that includes:

    • One skill or area to focus on (e.g., rescue timing, equipment use, spinal setup)

    • A plan to revisit or reinforce this skill using Pectora® resources

    • A measurable goal to work toward during the next in-service cycle

Submit your plan within Pectora or review it with an instructor as part of your ongoing training development.

  • Demonstrate Commitment to Readiness

At the end of the training cycle, lifeguards may be asked to demonstrate selected skills covered in their Pectora modules in a live or mock drill format. Instructors may reference submitted improvement plans and performance data to evaluate progress and readiness. Consistent, engaged use of Pectora shows dedication to professional growth and ensures every team member remains prepared for real-world emergencies.

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