The Defense Language and National Security Education Office, and the United States Indo-Pacific Command, in partnership with Joint Knowledge Online, introduce a series of Virtual Cultural Awareness Trainers for USINDOPACOM Area of Responsibility.

Virtual Cultural Awareness Trainers – also known as VCATs -- teach essential culture knowledge, as well as mission-specific language skills, to prepare individuals for successful interactions across a diverse cultural spectrum.

This series of VCATs model face-to-face interactions and allow trainees to learn, then practice, culture and language skills using interactive scenarios covering several mission areas, including Leader Engagements, Humanitarian Assistance - Disaster Relief., Theater Security, and Social Engagements.

Learners select a country and mission to create a customized course of instruction that can be completed within a few hours.

VCATs use game-based technology and storytelling, with feedback and after action reviews providing high quality, self-paced learning.

Mini-games provide learners with a fun and interactive experience while reinforcing the educational material.

A virtual coach guides learners through the VCAT, providing encouragement and feedback to enhance the learning experience.

Real-time remediation helps users learn from their mistakes and enables them to review the relevant material before retesting.

On-camera interviews with servicemembers deliver an informed perspective to help learners understand the operational environment.

Other interviews provide personal insights gained from in-country cultural experiences.

VCATs provide learners with the opportunity to practice their knowledge of key words and phrases in the target languages using record and playback technology. Interactive exercises allow learners to practice their comprehension of foreign-language phrases.

VCAT Mobile courses are available for use on mobile devices — providing anytime/anywhere access.

VCATs deliver introductory, mission-focused culture and language training that’s easy to access, at no cost.

Desktop and mobile versions are available now on the JKO learning management platforms.