From 281ebc71f670e5a649d34fb5d8d3f8eaf44df12c Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Bonnie Cameron <96838068+bonnieAcameron@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Fri, 22 Mar 2024 10:17:30 -0400 Subject: [PATCH 1/6] update train the trainer info --- _pages/training/tips-for-trainers.md | 10 ---------- _pages/training/train-the-trainer-bootcamp.md | 19 ------------------- 2 files changed, 29 deletions(-) delete mode 100644 _pages/training/train-the-trainer-bootcamp.md diff --git a/_pages/training/tips-for-trainers.md b/_pages/training/tips-for-trainers.md index bfcab3d2..3eea3b32 100644 --- a/_pages/training/tips-for-trainers.md +++ b/_pages/training/tips-for-trainers.md @@ -16,8 +16,6 @@ Starting a plain language program can be challenging. But like most challenges, As a first step, you'll want to look at our training materials to get an idea of what you should cover: -- We periodically offer a [Train-the-Trainer Bootcamp]({{ site.baseurl }}/training/train-the-trainer-bootcamp/). - - The [Federal Plain Language Guidelines]({{ site.baseurl }}/guidelines/) is our handbook for writers. You can use it to structure a training course. It makes a good text or reference for your students. - You can also use our training materials to [create your own class]({{ site.baseurl }}/training/create-your-own-class/). @@ -47,11 +45,3 @@ SMART goals are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and have a timefram - [Use tables]({{ site.baseurl }}/guidelines/design/use-tables-to-make-complex-material-easier-to-understand/). You can use tables effectively for much more than just showing numerical data. - [Use lists]({{ site.baseurl }}/guidelines/organize/use-lists/). Using lists instead of traditional paragraphs can help you convey detailed information quickly without overloading your readers. - -## Work with us - -We can also help you work with one of our trained instructors to set up a course. - -[The Plain Writing Act of 2010](http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=111_cong_bills&docid=f:h946enr.txt.pdf) requires agencies to train their staff in plain language. PLAIN offers free consultation to federal agencies on how to start an internal agency plain language program. We have previously worked with the National Institutes of Health, U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services, and Veterans Benefits Administration (to name a few). These agencies now have self-run, thriving plain language programs. - -If you have any questions or need more help, [contact us](mailto:{{ site.email }}). diff --git a/_pages/training/train-the-trainer-bootcamp.md b/_pages/training/train-the-trainer-bootcamp.md deleted file mode 100644 index 06b7ab16..00000000 --- a/_pages/training/train-the-trainer-bootcamp.md +++ /dev/null @@ -1,19 +0,0 @@ ---- -title: Train-the-trainer bootcamp -permalink: /training/train-the-trainer-bootcamp/ -sidenav: training -redirect_from: - - /resources/take_training/bootcamp.cfm ---- - -At our bootcamps, we train federal employees how to conduct plain language classes for government agencies. Please sign up if you: - -- want to become a volunteer trainer -- are a federal employee -- are enthusiastic about plain language -- have already attended a PLAIN half-day class -- have supervisor approval to teach 1–2 classes a year for PLAIN at an agency other than your own - -We can train 30 people per class. Registration is done on a first-come, first-served basis. You must be a federal employee (not a contractor) and have a .gov or .mil email address to register. We don't maintain a waitlist. If you did not attend a bootcamp in previous years, you must register again. - -We offer these bootcamps 3–4 times a year. We'll announce the dates on our [mailing list](https://www.digitalgov.gov/communities/plain-language/) once they're set. From d0d637c1ec1e633b527eddd964c745001485492f Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Bonnie Cameron <96838068+bonnieAcameron@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Fri, 22 Mar 2024 10:21:37 -0400 Subject: [PATCH 2/6] remove outdated training links --- _pages/training/online-training.md | 8 ++------ 1 file changed, 2 insertions(+), 6 deletions(-) diff --git a/_pages/training/online-training.md b/_pages/training/online-training.md index 658f2cf7..48dd8a3a 100644 --- a/_pages/training/online-training.md +++ b/_pages/training/online-training.md @@ -6,11 +6,11 @@ sidenav: training Plain language training is available in many forms. This page provides links to some of the plain language training resources we have found. If you know of any training resources that we've overlooked, please [contact us](mailto:{{ site.email }}). -- U.S. government agencies are required to communicate in plain language. The Plain Language Action and Information Network (PLAIN) through Digital.gov held two online workshops to explain how to write in plain language. [8-11-2020 workshop](https://digital.gov/event/2020/08/11/plain-language-basics-online-class/) and [9-10-2020 workshop](https://digital.gov/event/2020/09/10/taking-plain-language-workshop-online/). The materials are similar in both. +- U.S. government agencies are required to communicate in plain language. Digital.gov held two online workshops to explain how to write in plain language. [8-11-2020 workshop](https://digital.gov/event/2020/08/11/plain-language-basics-online-class/) and [9-10-2020 workshop](https://digital.gov/event/2020/09/10/taking-plain-language-workshop-online/). The materials are similar in both. - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has an [online health literacy training](https://www.cdc.gov/healthliteracy/gettraining.html) for health professionals. -- The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services developed a [Toolkit for Making Written Material Clear and Effective](https://www.cms.gov/Outreach-and-Education/Outreach/WrittenMaterialsToolkit/index.html). It focuses on healthcare and health literacy, but its principles can be used for any discipline. +- The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services developed a [Toolkit for Making Written Material Clear and Effective](https://www.cms.gov/training-education/learn/find-tools-to-help-you-help-others/guidelines-for-effective-writing). It focuses on healthcare and health literacy, but its principles can be used for any discipline. - The Department of Defense [training](https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/iss_training/PlainLanguageNONinteractive.mp4?ver=2020-02-03-145233-077) covers what plain language is, why you should write in plain language, and how to write in plain language. @@ -18,8 +18,4 @@ Plain language training is available in many forms. This page provides links to - The Essentials of Plain Language is a [nine part training](https://academy.govloop.com/watch/hDzHyqdB4T7K3fjbvuGk8B) that covers plain language principles and the Plain Language Writing Act of 2010. -- The Federal Aviation Administration has made its [basic course](https://www.faa.gov/about/initiatives/plain_language/basic_course/) and [plain language toolkit](https://www.faa.gov/about/initiatives/plain_language/media/toolkit.pdf) available online. - - The National Institutes of Health offers a free plain language [training course](https://www.nih.gov/institutes-nih/nih-office-director/office-communications-public-liaison/clear-communication/plain-language/plain-language-getting-started-or-brushing) that introduces you to the basics of plain language. It's not just for medical folks. The goal of this training is to help you learn to organize your ideas, use a clear writing style, and become a more effective communicator. - -- The government of Mexico kicked off a program in 2004 encouraging plain language in government writing. You can download this compressed file of [the materials]({{ site.baseurl }}/media/lenguaje.zip) they prepared for the participants. This material is in Spanish. From cfa70188c83cb6e9bd6e44be337ce6f5c0bcd291 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Bonnie Cameron <96838068+bonnieAcameron@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Fri, 22 Mar 2024 11:05:36 -0400 Subject: [PATCH 3/6] update live training language on landing page --- _pages/training/index.md | 12 ++------ _pages/training/introductory-classes.md | 38 ------------------------- 2 files changed, 3 insertions(+), 47 deletions(-) delete mode 100644 _pages/training/introductory-classes.md diff --git a/_pages/training/index.md b/_pages/training/index.md index 14150dab..6e55adde 100644 --- a/_pages/training/index.md +++ b/_pages/training/index.md @@ -14,17 +14,11 @@ redirect_from: - /resources/take_training/plaintraining.cfm --- -## Classes for federal agencies +## Elevate your communications with online plain language training -We offer two kinds of plain language training: +We understand that in-person training sessions aren't always convenient. That's why we've compiled a collection of on-demand, online plain language training resources. -### [Introductory classes]({{ site.baseurl }}/training/introductory-classes/) - -We provide a free half-day introduction to plain language to federal agencies. You must have at least 20 participants. Ask if one of our experienced trainers is available for your agency. - -### [Train-the-trainer bootcamp]({{ site.baseurl }}/training/train-the-trainer-bootcamp/) - -We need trainers to help us provide plain language training to government agencies. Our trainers are federal employees from across the government who volunteer 1–2 classes a year (outside of their own agencies). We offer these periodically; we can add you to the waitlist. +Find expert guidance and tools to simplify writing and communicate with greater clarity. Explore our selection of the best online materials, available whenever you're ready to learn. ## Public resources diff --git a/_pages/training/introductory-classes.md b/_pages/training/introductory-classes.md deleted file mode 100644 index a465af36..00000000 --- a/_pages/training/introductory-classes.md +++ /dev/null @@ -1,38 +0,0 @@ ---- -title: Introductory classes -permalink: /training/introductory-classes/ -sidenav: training -redirect_from: - - /resources/take_training/freetraining.cfm ---- - -PLAIN is dedicated to helping federal agencies train their staff to communicate clearly and develop their own plain language programs. We'll train your managers as well. - -We offer free, half-day training classes for federal agencies. All of our classes are based on the [Federal Plain Language Guidelines]({{ site.baseurl }}/guidelines/) and involve interactive writing exercises. - -In light of OPM guidance and increasing concerns about COVID-19 (coronavirus), we are suspending accepting training requests. - -## Class descriptions - -### Principles of plain language - -- Learn how to identify and write for your audience -- Use plain language techniques to create clear and effective writing -- Learn how using plain language can save your agency time and resources - -### Manager briefing - -- 10–30 minute overview of the Plain Writing Act of 2010 -- Assessment of benefits of using plain language - -## Request training - -**NOTE:** In light of OPM guidance and increasing concerns about COVID-19 (coronavirus), we are suspending accepting training requests. - - - -### Please note - -All of our trainers are volunteers, and we only offer training for federal agencies. Requesting agencies must pay all trainer expenses, including parking within the DC metro area (if needed) and lodging, travel, and per diem outside the metro area. We can’t always fulfill requests for classes outside the area because only one volunteer trainer is authorized by their home agency to travel. - -If you are not a federal employee requesting training for your agency, you can find other training options under **Public Resources** on [our main training page]({{ site.baseurl }}/training/). From 2c6c9ca02820e8f23cdc2408a0b1968ce2c5d3e1 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Bonnie Cameron <96838068+bonnieAcameron@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Fri, 22 Mar 2024 11:14:50 -0400 Subject: [PATCH 4/6] remove outdated videos --- _pages/training/videos.md | 17 ++++------------- 1 file changed, 4 insertions(+), 13 deletions(-) diff --git a/_pages/training/videos.md b/_pages/training/videos.md index 80f41698..41a40314 100644 --- a/_pages/training/videos.md +++ b/_pages/training/videos.md @@ -10,39 +10,30 @@ redirect_from: -## YouTube playlists +## Plain language playlists -- [2019 PLAIN Summit](https://www.youtube.com/embed/cny1CIMuv3o) -- [2018 PLAIN Summit](https://www.youtube.com/embed/W4gzfemW0Rc) - [PLAIN](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLd9b-GuOJ3nHMlmPFMw8cJxN_DW-odj0J) - [U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLADE80C67FDB39352) - [Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL)](https://www.youtube.com/user/OWLPurdue/playlists) ## PLAIN Meetings -- [June 2021 Meeting: Using Words to Build Better Digital Experiences](https://digital.gov/event/2021/06/09/plain-language-webinar-using-words-to-build-better-digital-experiences/) +- [2019 PLAIN Summit](https://www.youtube.com/embed/cny1CIMuv3o) +- [2018 PLAIN Summit](https://www.youtube.com/embed/W4gzfemW0Rc) +- [June 2021 Meeting: Using Words to Build Better Digital Experiences](https://digital.gov/event/2021/06/09/plain-language-webinar-using-words-to-build-better-digital-experiences/) - [May 2021 Meeting: Positioning Yourself as a Plain Language Editor](https://digital.gov/event/2021/05/19/positioning-yourself-as-a-plain-language-editor/) - [April 2021 Meeting: How Testing Your Documents Can Improve Plain Language Compliance](https://digital.gov/event/2021/04/14/how-testing-your-documents-can-improve-plain-language-compliance/) - [March 2021 Meeting: Plain Language: Accessibility for Content](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_WYcQnVOf4&t=4s) - [February 2021 Meeting: Plain Language: Virtual Teaching](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NBCxGDtYaXw&t=3s) - [July 2020 Meeting: Federal Plain Language Report Card Update](https://digital.gov/event/2020/07/15/federal-report-card-update/) -- [July 2019 Meeting: Federal Plain Language Report Card Planning](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_zTZGDE7Gg&list=PLd9b-GuOJ3nHMlmPFMw8cJxN_DW-odj0J&index=1) - [June 2019 Meeting: How to Develop an Agency Brand Voice that Connects With Customers Online](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cmxv70Tn2hk&list=PLd9b-GuOJ3nHMlmPFMw8cJxN_DW-odj0J&index=3) -- [March 2019 Meeting: Managing Your Plain Language Career](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIR489Oq7OY&list=PLd9b-GuOJ3nHMlmPFMw8cJxN_DW-odj0J&index=3&t=2s) - [March 2018 Meeting: Infographics: Plain Language Considerations](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49SJvZT3t2s) -- [July 2017 Meeting: Plainspoken Science](https://youtu.be/ZZdDJWl8bEc) - [June 2017 Meeting: Plain Language Spectrum: Every Step Counts](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGYhWjSmDvs) ## Other videos we like -- [Descriptive Link Language](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_XLTAEp6lQ) - - [Plain Language Training](https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/iss_training/PlainLanguageNONinteractive.mp4?ver=2020-02-03-145233-077), Department of Defense - -- [How to Use Plain Language on a Government Website](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QtXSCwphuzg), DigitalGov - - [Demand to Understand: How Plain Language Makes Life Simpler](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXcLwlZOE1s), Deborah Bosley - - [Writing Science in Plain English](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mn7f5tsgjx8), University of Cambridge --- From 26cff6ef56d8282c6cbe564e8808258bdcbb8c57 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Bonnie Cameron <96838068+bonnieAcameron@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Fri, 22 Mar 2024 11:25:23 -0400 Subject: [PATCH 5/6] remove references to introductory class --- _data/navigation.yml | 4 ---- _pages/about/index.md | 3 +-- _pages/training/create-your-own-class.md | 2 +- 3 files changed, 2 insertions(+), 7 deletions(-) diff --git a/_data/navigation.yml b/_data/navigation.yml index a2915cde..050a8855 100644 --- a/_data/navigation.yml +++ b/_data/navigation.yml @@ -5,14 +5,10 @@ law: href: /law/page-template/ training: - - text: Introductory classes - href: /training/introductory-classes/ - text: Videos href: /training/videos/ - text: Online training href: /training/online-training/ - - text: Train-the-trainer bootcamp - href: /training/train-the-trainer-bootcamp/ - text: Create your own class href: /training/create-your-own-class/ - text: Tips for starting a plain language program diff --git a/_pages/about/index.md b/_pages/about/index.md index 3c9edce0..04702275 100644 --- a/_pages/about/index.md +++ b/_pages/about/index.md @@ -19,10 +19,9 @@ To promote plain language, we: - develop and maintain the content of this site - [manage the plain language community of practice](https://www.digitalgov.gov/communities/plain-language/) -- [offer free half-day training sessions to federal agencies]({{ site.baseurl }}/training/introductory-classes/) - sponsor occasional seminars about plain language -We meet monthly to discuss plain language issues. Our meetings are open to all federal employees. [Subscribe to our mailing list](https://www.digitalgov.gov/communities/plain-language/) to learn about upcoming events. +[Join the Plain Language community of practice](https://www.digitalgov.gov/communities/plain-language/) to learn about upcoming events. Please [contact us](mailto:{{ site.email }}) if you have questions about how to promote plain language within your agency. diff --git a/_pages/training/create-your-own-class.md b/_pages/training/create-your-own-class.md index 53c55373..3556f676 100644 --- a/_pages/training/create-your-own-class.md +++ b/_pages/training/create-your-own-class.md @@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ redirect_from: - /resources/for_trainers/PLAIN.cfm --- -PLAIN offers a variety of introductory classes on plain language. You may use these materials as the basis of your own class. +You may use these materials as the basis of your own class. ## Half-day presentations From 7567b90237c78af2fbf26fd2feee5760441d4220 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Bonnie Cameron <96838068+bonnieAcameron@users.noreply.github.com> Date: Fri, 22 Mar 2024 13:06:20 -0400 Subject: [PATCH 6/6] update youtube embeds --- _pages/training/videos.md | 4 ++-- 1 file changed, 2 insertions(+), 2 deletions(-) diff --git a/_pages/training/videos.md b/_pages/training/videos.md index 41a40314..2d7abae9 100644 --- a/_pages/training/videos.md +++ b/_pages/training/videos.md @@ -18,8 +18,8 @@ redirect_from: ## PLAIN Meetings -- [2019 PLAIN Summit](https://www.youtube.com/embed/cny1CIMuv3o) -- [2018 PLAIN Summit](https://www.youtube.com/embed/W4gzfemW0Rc) +- [2019 PLAIN Summit](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cny1CIMuv3o) +- [2018 PLAIN Summit](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4gzfemW0Rc) - [June 2021 Meeting: Using Words to Build Better Digital Experiences](https://digital.gov/event/2021/06/09/plain-language-webinar-using-words-to-build-better-digital-experiences/) - [May 2021 Meeting: Positioning Yourself as a Plain Language Editor](https://digital.gov/event/2021/05/19/positioning-yourself-as-a-plain-language-editor/) - [April 2021 Meeting: How Testing Your Documents Can Improve Plain Language Compliance](https://digital.gov/event/2021/04/14/how-testing-your-documents-can-improve-plain-language-compliance/)