Girl Scouts of Northern California (GSNorCal) has transitioned to a new, enhanced learning management system called gsLearn to support their dedicated volunteers. Replacing the Volunteer Learning Portal (VLP) on September 5, 2023, gsLearn offers a more streamlined and comprehensive training experience. This platform is designed to equip volunteers with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their roles, ensuring a positive and impactful experience for both volunteers and Girl Scouts alike. With clear learning paths, updated course content, and convenient single sign-on access through MyGS, gsLearn is set to revolutionize volunteer training within GSNorCal.
Key Features of gsLearn for Volunteer Success
gsLearn is packed with features designed to make volunteer training more accessible and effective:
- Role-Based Learning Paths: Volunteers can easily navigate clear learning paths tailored to their specific roles. This structured approach ensures that volunteers receive the most relevant training for their responsibilities, from troop leaders to event organizers.
- Updated and Engaging Courses: The platform boasts new and updated courses, providing volunteers with the latest information and best practices in Girl Scouting. These courses are designed to be engaging and informative, enhancing the learning experience.
- Seamless MyGS Integration: Accessing gsLearn is simple and convenient with single MyGS sign-on. This integration eliminates the need for separate logins, streamlining the user experience and making it easier for volunteers to access training resources.
Transitioning from the Volunteer Learning Portal to gsLearn
Understanding the transition from the previous Volunteer Learning Portal is key for existing volunteers. Here’s what you need to know:
- Training Record Migration: Course completions from the Volunteer Learning Portal are being transferred to gsLearn. To initiate the transfer, volunteers need to complete the Mandated Reporter course within gsLearn. For those who had already completed Mandated Reporter on VLP, equivalent course completions were automatically migrated. If any training records are missing, volunteers can reach out to [email protected] for assistance.
- Continuing In-Progress Courses: Volunteers who were in the midst of completing courses on the VLP when the switch occurred can contact [email protected] to have their progress transferred to gsLearn. This ensures a seamless continuation of their training without losing previously completed modules.
Navigating and Utilizing gsLearn Resources
Finding and sharing resources within gsLearn is slightly different from the VLP. Here’s how to access and utilize the available content:
- Content Library Access: Direct links to individual courses and learning paths, as available in the VLP, are not implemented in gsLearn. Instead, volunteers can easily find the learning path for their role and browse desired courses within the comprehensive Content Library.
- “In Progress” Tracking: Once a course is started, it will be conveniently listed under the “In Progress” tab on the volunteer’s gsLearn homepage. This allows for easy tracking of ongoing training and quick access to continue learning.
Proof of Completion and Training Records in gsLearn
While badges are not currently offered in gsLearn, the platform provides alternative methods for verifying training completion:
- Certificates of Completion: Upon completing courses and learning paths, volunteers will receive certificates as official proof of completion. These certificates can be downloaded and shared as needed.
- Downloadable Training Reports: Volunteers can download their comprehensive training completion report directly from the Achievements tab in gsLearn. Reports are available in Excel or PDF format, providing a detailed record of all completed training. For a visual guide on these features, explore the gsLearn Video Learning Series.
Verifying Training Completion for Troop Leaders and Event Managers
Troop Leaders and event managers may need to verify the training status of their volunteers. gsLearn offers a couple of methods for this:
- Volunteer-Provided Proof: Volunteers can easily provide proof of their training completion by sharing their downloaded certificates or training reports with troop leaders.
- Looker Dashboard Access (Service Unit Roles): Certain service unit level roles with access to Looker will have the ability to view gsLearn course completion data through the Looker dashboard. More information on service unit resources can be found at service unit resources.
gsLearn represents a significant upgrade in volunteer training for Girl Scouts of Northern California. By offering structured learning paths, updated content, and user-friendly features, gsLearn empowers volunteers to confidently and effectively support Girl Scouts in their community. Explore gsLearn today through your MyGS account and embark on your enhanced volunteer learning journey.
