Simulation trains employees to aid military veterans

Kalamazoo, Mich.—Faculty and staff members at Western Michigan University are encouraged to participate in an online, interactive training simulation that assists in understanding the needs, experiences and cultural issues affecting military students.

The Veterans on Campus for Faculty and Staff simulation may be started at any time on any day and can be stopped and resumed as necessary. It is provided by WMU's Office of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Topics available to University employees are represented through three stories, or modules, which engage simulation participants in role-play conversations with virtual student veterans.

Participants get hands-on experience learning how to:

• Connect students to appropriate campus resources.
• Manage challenging conversation.
• Recognize signs of psychological distress.

They also receive immediate individualized feedback.

Get started

Those who wish to participate in the simulation must first create an account with Kognito by visiting kognitocampus.com/login. Use the term michiganvets as the enrollment key, then follow the prompts to launch the first of the three modules.

For more information, visit wmich.edu/military/faculty-staff-training. Direct questions to John C. Scott in the Office of Military and Veterans Affairs at john.c.scott@wmich.edu or (269) 387-4455.