Modernize Government Training with Blackboard, Now IL4 Authorized
Introduction
Training is a challenging task for any organization, but for the Department of Defense and high-security civilian agencies, it comes with the added responsibility of adhering to stringent government regulations for securing course materials and learner data. As global issues continue to put pressure on US security organizations, the need to modernize training while maintaining security becomes increasingly critical.
At Anthology, we dedicate our time and resources to ensuring that government agencies can train their personnel in a flexible and secure environment.
Blackboard + Government
For over two decades, Anthology has been committed to supporting the technical training programs of the US government with cutting-edge solutions that bolster mission success. Our dedication has grown over the past decade, leading to the adoption of FedRAMP® Tailored LI-SaaS in June 2018 and FedRAMP Moderate in April 2020 for Blackboard deployed in AWS GovCloud (US). Our latest achievement is earning IL4 authorization, reflecting our ongoing investment in secure, compliant solutions.
Military Training Program Challenges
As of March 2025, the US military comprised 2.07 million military personnel and 788,470 civilians. Training nearly three million individuals (about the population of Arkansas) with varying security clearances and operational needs presents numerous challenges. Flexibility in training mediums allows our armed forces to complete courses at times most convenient for their work and personal schedules. Additionally, tracking course and program completions is critical in ensuring that individuals meet the requirements for new responsibilities and promotions.
Military Training and Generation Z
Generation Z, born between 1996 and 2012, has grown up immersed in technology, making them highly tech-savvy. RAND’s report, "Generation Z and Joint Professional Military Education," highlights several key findings:
- Generation Z is comfortable with technology and social media but also faces mental health challenges and tends to be more withdrawn.
- They are less inclined to join the military and may not stay long if they do.
- The student body in professional military education exhibits both generational and military-specific characteristics, which can be challenging to delineate.
The report offers three recommendations:
- Design courses that address the needs of an intergenerational student body.
- Incorporate practical, current content and technology-enabled learning to engage new generations.
- Explore blended learning models and the role of education in recruitment and retention.
Technology-Enabled Learning
Investing in secure technology for military training is at a critical juncture. A single pedagogical approach will not suffice for the diverse and technical needs of the US military. Blended learning, which combines online self-paced or structured training with in-person components, supports various learning styles and training needs. Providing secure online training reduces overhead costs brought on by travel to on-site courses and experiencing expensive equipment for the first time in person. And as the military continues to attract younger generations who are accustomed to using iPads in classrooms instead of traditional textbooks, anticipating and adapting to these changes is vital for ongoing training success.
Adopting a Secure Training Platform
Military training programs encompass courses ranging from unclassified to top secret. How can the military ensure security while providing flexible training options? Anthology is proud to provide the industry’s most innovative LMS, Blackboard, now with IL4 authorization, to the US military. Anthology® Blackboard is central to the Department of Defense's efforts to modernize training, embrace cloud-based solutions, and expedite force readiness. Blackboard stands out as the DoD’s mission-ready training partner, prioritizing flexibility, simplicity, and reliability. To learn more, set up time to talk to our team.