What is VAT Online?

Victim Assistance Training Online (VAT Online) is a Web-based training funded by the Office for Victims of Crime. The training combines core information and fundamental skills needed by victim service providers to assist victims of crime effectively and sensitively. Additional information is provided to meet the specific needs of identified populations.

What are the goals for VAT Online training?

The goal of VAT Online is to provide a user-friendly training tool that offers victim service providers and allied professionals the opportunity to develop the essential skills and knowledge they need to assist victims of crime more effectively. A secondary goal is to provide the training at a time and place convenient to the learner, which is achieved by the Web-based format.

What topics are included in VAT Online?

VAT Online is currently being revised and updated. 19 modules are now available and cover basic information and core knowledge and skills for victim service professionals. 19 modules related to crimes and special populations will be released from December 2014 through June 2015. Each takes 30�90 minutes to complete.

How are these topics taught using an online format?

Each module in VAT Online is taught using interactive methodologies, case studies, exercises, and other suggested activities to enhance the user's learning.

Who is the intended audience?

The intended audience is new victim service providers with less than 3 years of experience working with victims of crime. The training also will serve as a refresher course for more experienced victim service providers.

How long does it take to complete VAT Online? Will I have to complete it all in one sitting?

When all 54 modules are revised and available, the entire training is designed to take approximately 42 hours to complete. It does not have to be completed all in one sitting. In fact, it is divided into various modules and sections so that the user can review it at his or her own pace and bookmark the last module reviewed. Each module takes about 30–90 minutes to complete. Learners can complete all 54 planned modules or can complete specific modules, based on their learning needs.

What are the costs associated with this training?

This training is offered free of charge. Since the training is available online, there are no tuition or travel costs associated with taking it.

Who developed VAT Online and how did they decide what topics to include in the training?

This training was funded by the Office for Victims of Crime and developed by OVC TTAC, working closely with a group of nationally known subject matter experts who combine theory with practical expertise. Both OVC staff and the subject matter experts decided on the range of topics to include in the training.

How often is this training going to be updated? Will I have to take this training every few years?

VAT Online will be updated every 2 years so that its content remains current. Your supervisor may request that you review specific modules periodically as a refresher.

What type of computer capability do I need to take VAT Online?

You will need a computer that has Internet access, as VAT Online is an Internet-based, online training. It can be used with a MAC or PC. Specific hardware/software requirements include:�

• Operating System: Microsoft Windows XP SP22
• Processor: 550 MHz or faster (1.2 GHz or faster recommended)
• 256 MB or greater
• Sound Card: 16-bit sound card with speakers or headphones
• Monitor: 1024 x 768 minimum resolution (or higher recommended) with 16-bit color depth
• Network Connection: High-speed Internet access
• Supported browsers:
  • Internet Explorer (supported version is 7.0 and above)
  • Mozilla Firefox (supported version is 4.0 and above)
  • Safari on Mac (supported version is 5.0 and above)

JavaScript, Active X, and cookies must be enabled; �popup blocker� software must be disabled or programmed to accept popups.

Java 1.6.0.26 (supported version is between 1.5 and 1.6.x.x)

Flash player 10.3.181.34 (supported version is 9.0 and above)

Adobe Reader 10.1.0.0 (supported version is 8.2 and above)

If you are experiencing difficulties accessing the course, please refer to the workstation requirements.

Who can I contact if I have questions or technical problems with accessing or using VAT Online?

You can contact VAT Online technical assistance at VATOnline@ovcttac.org or 1-866-682-8822.

Do I need supervisor approval to take the VAT Online training?

Anyone can access the VAT Online training. However, since VAT Online is national in scope, your supervisor can help you apply the information and skills more specifically to your area and your agency, and can help you address your individual career plans.

Can I take VAT Online training during my work hours or do I have to take the training at home?�

The program is available 24/7. You can take it from any location where there is a computer with Internet access. If you are using it as part of your on-the-job professional training, you should consult with your supervisor regarding when and where to take the training.

How will my supervisor know when I have completed VAT Online?

You will receive a certificate of completion for each module that you can complete. You can share your certificate(s) with your supervisor.

Is there course accreditation for completing VAT Online?

You will receive a certificate of completion for each module that you complete.

Who can I contact to learn more about VAT Online?

You can contact OVC TTAC at VATOnline@ovcttac.org or 1-866-682-8822 to learn more about this offering.