ASM Class Guidance During the COVID-19 Pandemic

ASM in person classes are still being held, even during this health crisis that we are facing. As we negotiate COVID-19 and local restrictions, the following guidelines have been developed to help a group who is interested in hosting a class to make decisions in the best interest of everyone. This guidance is in effect until further notice.

1. Recommendations

At this time, we recommend that only Basic (100 series) classes be taught. We do not forbid Advanced classes from being taught but we discourage them until the Pandemic is deemed to be under control. If you see an Advanced class on the schedule and choose to take the Advanced class, you do so at your own risk. This does not mean that precautions will not be taken since adjustments will be made to teaching. Advanced skills will require that students get closer than 6 feet from each other and may require that they touch another person. Students will be asked to provide their own masks, gloves and hand sanitizer.

2. Basic class options are as follows:

a.  Completely virtual: Online training (2.5 hours) done at a student’s own pace over 30 days – no certification. If a student wishes to complete certification, that student can sign up for a virtual hands-on class that will require another 2.5-3 hours of hands-on training with an instructor through a portal such as zoom, skype, or google meet.

b.  Blended (Hybrid) Learning: Online Training (2.5 hours) done at a student’s own pace over 30 days followed by a 3.5 hour in person hands-on class. The number of students is determined by the local guidelines and recommendations. Masks required. Individual supplies are provided to the student. Hand sanitizer available.

c. In person instructor-led class. 7.0-hour class with 1.0-hour lunch break (8.0 hours total). Can be done over two evenings (3.5 hours each session). The number of students is determined by the local guidelines and recommendations. Masks required. Individual supplies are provided to the student. Hand sanitizer available.

2. Other guidelines and considerations:

a.  The bigger the room, the better. The cost/student might increase if the class is smaller than usual due to room or gathering restrictions. As a guideline for class cost, if an instructor needs to travel, the cost of the class is $1500.00 (all in). The cost may be less if the instructor is in your area and does not have travel expenses.

b. Because every instructor, group and community has varying levels of comfort and rules, it is best to speak to your group and an instructor to determine their level of comfort. Even if there is an instructor in your area, that does not mean they feel comfortable doing a full day in-person class. To discuss your group’s needs or discuss your plan, contact the ASM office by calling 262-706-3278.

c.  Consider hosting a small group “virtual class”. Because small groups are getting together anyway, you can make it fun by getting your “crew” together in one or more locations and book a virtual class (See above -1a). One or more students can join a virtual hands-on class from the comfort of their home or another quiet location.

One final thought: Despite the pandemic, motorcycle crashes were UP in 2020. Our topic (motorcycle first response) is as important as ever! The most likely person to be first at a motorcycle crash is another motorcyclist. If you can find a way to safely do training, we highly recommend it!

More information: https://roadguardians.org/covid-19-update/