The California State University (CSU) system is committed to fostering growth and continuous learning for all its employees. In line with this commitment, CSU transitioned to a new, comprehensive Learning Management System (LMS) in February 2019: Csu Learn. This platform, powered by Skillsoft/SumTotal, is designed to elevate the learning experience, streamline training processes, and empower CSU staff and faculty in their professional journeys.
What Exactly is CSU Learn?
CSU Learn is the California State University’s enterprise-wide Learning Management System (LMS). Think of it as a centralized online portal designed to manage and deliver all types of training and development content. Built on the robust Skillsoft/SumTotal platform, CSU Learn enables the CSU system to efficiently assign, monitor, and utilize a wide array of learning resources. These resources span from essential compliance training to broader professional development opportunities, all within a user-friendly digital environment.
Why the Move to CSU Learn?
The decision to adopt CSU Learn was a strategic one, driven by the evolving needs of the CSU system. As the previous enterprise training contract neared its conclusion, the CSU undertook a thorough review process. A Request for Proposal (RFP) committee, comprising 27 representatives from diverse CSU campuses and departments, was formed. This collaborative evaluation revealed that the CSU’s requirements had outgrown the capabilities of the existing training system.
CSU Learn emerged as the ideal solution to address these growing demands. It offers enhanced flexibility in setting training assignments, accommodates employees with diverse roles and responsibilities, provides advanced reporting and analytics for better tracking and insights, and delivers a significantly more dynamic and engaging user experience. Furthermore, Skillsoft’s established reputation and successful partnerships with organizations like the University of California system (UC), as well as within highly regulated sectors such as pharmaceuticals and airlines, instilled confidence in its ability to meet the CSU’s complex needs.
Key Features and Benefits of CSU Learn
CSU Learn is packed with features designed to enhance the training experience for both employees and administrators:
- Flexible Training Assignments: Managers can tailor training assignments based on specific roles, departments, or individual needs, ensuring relevant learning paths for everyone.
- Support for Multiple Roles: The system seamlessly manages training requirements for employees with diverse responsibilities, simplifying compliance and development tracking.
- Robust Reporting and Analytics: CSU Learn provides comprehensive reporting tools, enabling administrators to monitor training progress, identify trends, and measure the effectiveness of learning initiatives. This data-driven approach allows for continuous improvement of training programs.
- Dynamic User Experience: The platform boasts an intuitive and modern interface, making it easy for users to navigate content, access assigned training, and track their learning progress. This enhanced user experience promotes engagement and knowledge retention.
- Wide Range of Content: CSU Learn hosts a diverse library of training content, covering mandatory compliance topics, professional development courses, and much more. This extensive catalog ensures that employees have access to the resources they need to succeed in their roles and advance their careers.
CSU Learn: Go-Live and Implementation Timeline
CSU Learn officially became the CSU’s new employee training system on February 4th, 2019. The implementation was carefully planned and rolled out in stages to ensure a smooth transition.
Key Milestones:
- December 31st, 2018: Training in the previous system (DTS) was frozen to prepare for data migration.
- February 4th, 2019 (Go-Live): CSU Learn launched with initial compliance content available, including:
- SHPS (Systemwide Human Resources Policies)
- Title IX for Supervisors and Non-Supervisors
- Conflicts of Interest
- Data Security
- HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)
- Clery Act
- Mandated Reporter
- Procurement Card Industry (PCI) Compliance
- Red Flags Rule
- Defensive Driving
- Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP)
- Laboratory Safety
- February 2019: Automatic training assignments were initiated based on historical completion records. Employees began receiving notifications from CSU Learn regarding their assigned compliance training. Additional compliance training assignments were rolled out throughout the month.
- March 2019: Instructor-Led Training (ILT) was integrated into the CSU Learn training calendar, allowing for enrollment tracking and management of in-person training sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions about CSU Learn
Q: I have mandatory training to complete. Where do I access it now?
A: The deadline to complete training in the old DTS system was December 31st, 2018. All new training activities are now available within CSU Learn. You will receive notifications and can access your assigned training directly through the CSU Learn platform.
Q: What happened to my past training records?
A: All your completed training records from the previous system were successfully migrated to CSU Learn. You can access your comprehensive training history within CSU Learn under the “Training Transcript” section. Please note that incomplete training courses that were in progress in DTS were not transferred.
Q: Can I download or save a copy of my training records?
A: Yes, your complete training history is available in CSU Learn. You can access and download your Training Transcript for your records.
Q: How does CSU Learn benefit managers and supervisors?
A: CSU Learn offers enhanced notification and reporting capabilities, making it easier for managers to monitor their team’s training progress and identify individuals who require training. This improved oversight streamlines compliance management and ensures team members stay up-to-date with necessary skills and knowledge.
Q: I coordinate in-person training sessions. How does CSU Learn support instructor-led training?
A: CSU Learn fully supports instructor-led training (ILT). It provides improved tools for managing enrollment, scheduling sessions within the training calendar, and integrating in-person training with online resources such as modules, handouts, and completion certificates. This blended approach enhances the overall learning experience.
Project Collaboration and Key Teams
The CSU Learn migration was a collaborative effort involving stakeholders from various teams across the CSU system, including:
- Enterprise Training Collaborative (ETC)
- Information Technology (IT)
- Distributed Learning Technologies (DLT)
- Learning and Development (LDEV)
- Environmental Health and Safety (EHS)
- Creative Media and Technology (CMT)
- Facilities Management Services (FMS)
- Technology and Learning Program (TLP)
- Office of Accessible Technology (OATS)
The project was centrally managed by the CSU Chancellor’s Office in partnership with all 23 CSU campuses, demonstrating a system-wide commitment to enhanced employee development.
Content Management and Team Responsibilities
To ensure efficient content management within CSU Learn, roles and responsibilities are clearly defined:
- Subject Matter Expert (SME): SMEs are responsible for defining training objectives, outlining requirements, and initiating the development of training materials based on their expertise.
- Instructional Design: Instructional designers collaborate with SMEs to create engaging and effective courses, focusing on pedagogical best practices, content structure, and learning activities. They assist with course design, content creation, and review.
- Accessibility: Accessibility specialists ensure all training content is accessible to all users, adhering to accessibility guidelines and best practices. They review content with a focus on inclusivity and accessibility.
- Technical Admin: Technical administrators manage the CSU Learn system, providing technical support to other teams and end-users, ensuring the platform operates smoothly and efficiently.
Need Assistance with CSU Learn?
For any questions or further information about CSU Learn and its implementation, please reach out to the training support team at [email protected].
To submit requests for new learning activities or to add events to the CSU Learn training calendar, please submit a ticket through the IT Service Catalog: IT Service Catalog.
Embracing Continuous Learning with CSU Learn
CSU Learn represents a significant investment in the professional development of CSU employees. By providing a centralized, user-friendly, and feature-rich learning platform, CSU is empowering its workforce to continuously grow, adapt, and excel in their roles. Embrace CSU Learn and unlock your full potential within the California State University system.
