Measures of improvement MUVoT, a Blended Learning course on the topic of Measurement Uncertainty for advanced Vocational Training

In verifying the tolerance specification and identifying the zone of conformity of a particular component an adequate determination of the task-related measurement uncertainty relevant to the utilized measurement method is required, in accordance with part one of the standard “Geometrical Product Specifications” as well as with the “Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement”. Although, measurement uncertainty is a central subject in the field of metrology and is certainly considered to be of significant importance, there is still a perceived lack of knowledge on the subject within employees in the field of quality management and industrial metrology. They are often neither familiar with procedures for the determination of measurement uncertainty nor with the interpretation and analysis of measurement results as well as economic consequences of decisions taken at the level of conformity. Furthermore, in times of increasing globalization relating to products, processes and development, in which ever more producers cooperate with institutes and companies from all over the world, there is a strong demand and need for a transnational vocational training on the topic of measurement uncertainty. For that reason, in the European project MUVoT (“Blended Learning course on measurement uncertainty for advanced vocational training” Leonardo da Vinci – Transfer of Innovation 2011-1-PL1-LEO05-19870), a course for advanced vocational training on the topic of measurement uncertainty was established in cooperation with seven institutes from six European countries to provide an internationally harmonized education programme and thus guarantee a better quality of products through the training of metrologists. The training offer is based on a Blended Learning concept, combining self-dependent learning via a web-based eLearning platform and class teaching in face-to-face workshops. On the one hand, this allows the adaptation to individual knowledge and skills by self-controlled learning of abstract contents. On the other hand, the exercises enable the practical application of typical methods, which are generally considered as quite complex by many employees, and thus assure correct understanding. Furthermore, class teaching in manageable groups of participants offers the possibility of adaption to individual training needs. The integration of vocational training into a job-based application is facilitated, so that the idea of Lifelong Learning is promoted in new fields of application. Taking into consideration, that the target group of this training consists of participants with a very inhomogeneous qualification, including foremen, skilled workers, technicians and engineers, the course contents are provided in a modular structure with preparatory, basic and advanced chapters. By performing pilot courses at each project partner, the course content has been thoroughly tested and feedback has been sought and given allowing for a policy of continuous improvement. This article describes the results of these evaluations and the targeted improvements of the content and overall concept considering the identified competence requirements and needs of the participants. © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. Peer-review under responsibility of the organizing committee of 13th CIRP conference on Computer Aided Tolerancing.