Training Materials to Implement Context Classifications (2026)
Chapter: 7 Final Training Materials
Chapter 7: Final Training Materials
The training materials, originally developed as part of Task 3, have evolved continuously throughout the research project. First, NCHRP panel input was incorporated prior to the Task 4 workshops. Then, input received from the selected state DOTs was incorporated into the revised training materials that were submitted as part of the Task 4 Interim Report. Finally, the research team prepared final training materials by incorporating additional feedback that was received from the selected state DOTs in Tasks 5 and 6. The final training materials are intended to support state DOTs with a broad mix of experiences and needs through the implementation of context classification.
The final training materials are provided as a separate Task 8 deliverable and include the following resources.
LEADERSHIP BRIEFING
A two-page briefing provides an overview of the potential benefits of context classification. It also highlights what agencies can expect when first getting starting. It is meant to support agency champions making an initial case to leadership to explore context classification. The leadership briefing builds on an overview developed by Kansas DOT following the workshop.
AGENCY SURVEY
The example survey was developed in Task 3 to identify current challenges to project delivery and how context classification can be best integrated into each departments/divisions within the agency. The survey can be used to tailor the interactive training and the action plan development.
INTERACTIVE TRAINING
The research team developed four hours’ worth of interactive training materials, intended to be facilitated as an in-person workshop. The training is organized into four modules and an interactive activity:
- Introduction to Context Classification (15 minutes)
- Context Classification and Project Development Process (45 minutes)
- Understanding User Needs (60 Minutes)
- Context-Based Speeds (60 minutes)
- Interactive Activity (60 minutes)
The organization into modules is intended to provide flexibility to agencies to conduct the trainings all at once or as a series of smaller workshops or webinars.
Module 1 replaces the pre-workshop webinar from Task 4. It includes detailed speaker notes for agencies who wish to record their own webinar and share it ahead of the workshop, saving more time for discussion during the workshop.
The interactive activity highlights the concepts covered in modules 3 and 4. It can be split into two parts after each module or completed all at once at the end of the training.
ACTION PLAN TEMPLATE
The end goal of the training is to develop an action plan for context classification implementation. The action plan template includes common steps performed by agencies who have successfully implemented context classification. The research team added additional steps from the state DOTs who participated in this research to cover a broad set of potential needs. The action plan template also includes a list of potential documents or manuals that may need to be updated. The action plan template encourages agencies to identify a lead for each task. This lead should be responsible for providing clarity on next steps and creating a plan that allows for accountability across team members.
