The 17th Training Wing empowers students to take responsibility for learning through the Academic Success Model (ASM). The ASM enhances our efforts to operationalize the “Learning Next” or Student-Centered Active Learning Environment (SCALE) philosophy by placing the onus of learning on the student as they arrive at Goodfellow AFB. The underlying principle of “Learning Next” is that student engagement – with the curriculum, instructors, and peers – is the most critical component to academic success. Whereas Faculty Next developed a cadre of professional educators who foster the active learning environment, the ASM focuses on the Airmen-student who will actively engage in that environment. The ASM accomplishes Air Force objectives through three distinct efforts: Student Success Orientation, Student Success Coaches, and the Mentorship Program.

Student Success Orientation is the airman’s first day in the active learning environment. The goal of orientation is to introduce the students to the skills needed to successfully navigate this new environment, and provide them with opportunities to practice these skills. Student Success Coaches are a cadre of peer-mentors from the student population. Student Airmen who display peer-coach potential are selected and provided more in-depth training on academic and wellness topics received during orientation. The Mentorship Program is the student's first experience with formalized mentorship. It is designed to instill in airmen the commitment to continuous growth, and resilient development in the training environment and beyond. Prospective mentors (NCO, SNCO, or officer as appropriate) receive training that is incorporated into our Basic Instructor Course (BIC) curriculum. This training teaches the mentor to leverage their individual experiences and create their ‘mentoring toolbox’ that they will use to guide students towards both academic and career success.

Together, Faculty Next and the Academic Success Model provide unity of effort from all members of the organization. Carefully crafting a learning environment that prompts students to think critically and creatively, communicate effectively, and act with purpose, creates the conditions to develop a lethal and ready force that can navigate and produce results within any ambiguous environment. The ASM develops tools that prepare Airmen for resilient life-long learning and ultimate success in supporting the mission to Fly-Fight-Win!