Block Learning represents a foundational shift in how the U.S. Navy approaches career-long training, serving as the initial phase of the broader Ready Relevant Learning (RRL) initiative. This innovative program restructures traditional entry-level training paths into modular blocks, strategically delivered throughout a Sailor’s career to ensure continuous professional development.
Under this revised system, Sailors in operational units will return for focused training approximately 24 months after their initial reporting date. This recurring training allows them to complete essential modules and advance their Navy Enlisted Classifications (NECs) progressively as their careers advance.
The core concept of Block Learning centers on delivering training at specific, career-aligned intervals, categorized into ‘blocks’ as defined below:
Block 0: This block encompasses all training completed before a Sailor’s first command assignment. Key examples include:
- Recruit Training Command (RTC)
- Life Skills (LS) courses
- Initial accession training pipelines, such as “A” or “C” schools
Block 1: Block 1 focuses on formalized rate-specific training delivered during a Sailor’s first tour. This training is strategically timed between 12 to 24 months after reporting to their first operational command. This ensures the training is highly relevant and immediately applicable to their current roles and responsibilities.
Block 1.X: Depending on career progression and evolving needs, additional block training, designated as Block 1.2, 1.3, and so on, may be scheduled at various points during the first sea tour to provide specialized or advanced skills.
Block 2: This block represents formalized rate training occurring just before or during a Sailor’s second tour assignment. It is designed to prepare Sailors for the increased responsibilities and complexities of their subsequent roles.
Modern Training Delivery for Optimal Career Support
Block Learning is committed to modernizing content and diversifying delivery methods to accelerate learning, mitigate skill decay, and provide readily accessible on-the-job performance support throughout a Sailor’s career. This approach is crucial for maintaining a highly skilled and adaptable naval force.
Block Learning (2017 – 2022): This initial phase focused on updating entry-level training to build proficiency precisely when it is needed in a Sailor’s career, ensuring immediate relevance and application. This program ensures that Sailors are not overloaded with information upfront, but rather receive training as they need it, enhancing retention and practical application.
Enhanced, Accessible Learning (2018 – 2025): Building upon Block Learning, this phase enhances the learning continuum with richer content and multiple delivery options available directly at waterfront locations. This accessibility ensures that training is convenient and readily integrated into the demanding schedules of naval personnel, supporting continuous career growth.
Modernized, On-Demand, Fleet-Responsive Learning (2020 and Beyond): This future-oriented phase aims to provide robust training options and performance support in easily accessible locations, on demand. This ensures that training programs remain agile and responsive to the evolving needs of the fleet, offering career-relevant training precisely when and where it is most beneficial.
Integrated Content Development for Relevant Career Advancement
A key benefit of Ready Relevant Learning, including Block Learning, is the significant reduction in both the cost and time required to deliver the most pertinent training to the Fleet. This streamlined approach enhances the Navy’s agility in a rapidly changing global environment, ensuring Sailors receive the most up-to-date and career-relevant training.
Block Learning (2017 – 2022): This phase established the crucial role of fleet personnel in defining training requirements and validating training analysis. This collaborative approach ensures that training programs are directly aligned with the real-world needs and experiences of Sailors, making the training highly career-relevant.
Enhanced, Accessible Learning (2018 – 2025): This phase focuses on aligning processes, standards, and resources to expedite the development of training materials. By streamlining the development process, the Navy can more quickly adapt training programs to emerging technologies and evolving operational demands, maintaining the career relevance of training.
Modernized, On-Demand, Fleet-Responsive Learning (2020 and Beyond): Looking ahead, the focus is on rapid, responsive content control authority to drive continuous improvement in training programs. This dynamic approach ensures that training content remains cutting-edge and directly supports the career progression of Sailors by providing them with the most relevant skills and knowledge throughout their service.
