How to develop a training method directed towards real-time operators: key steps and main tools to the Brazilian Power System

Abstract

The real-time operators act on phenomena characterized by uncertainty, incomplete information, time pressure, unexpected events, and security threat. Emergency and urgent situations demand rapid and effective decisions. This is the case of hospital emergencies, fire brigades, air traffic control, nuclear plants control, and power system operation. It requires the development of behavioral skills in training programs. This paper aims to describe how to develop a method to training programs for real-time operators. Steps and the tools to develop a training method were presented. Experts of the Brazilian Power System Operator Company evaluated the method. Results point to a method focused on power system operators with six key steps namely, Problem Analysis, Context Analysis, Identify Training Needs, Choose Training Techniques, Training Program Structure, and Evaluation. The simulation was the main tool, followed by a behavioral observatory based on roleplay. Test and apply the method to other types of real-time operations is needed to improve the proposed method.