AFI 36-2301 outlines new developmental education guidance Published Aug. 20, 2010 By Cheryl Q. Medlin Force Development Directorate WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- Air Force Instruction 36-2301, establishing policy and responsibility for developmental education, has undergone substantial revision, officials said Aug. 13. In addition to language governing attendance, eligibility, selection and removal criteria, the revised instruction provides procedures for inclusion of international officers in professional military education programs, said Col. Jeff White, the service's force development directorate learning division chief. Two key changes implemented in this instruction include the requirement for enlisted members to have a current passing fitness score to attend PME and the creation of primary developmental education, a new PME category that incorporates Squadron Officer School and SOS's equivalent, the Inter-American Air Force Academy course. "The revision of AFI 36-2301 not only marks a great step in the right direction for the Air Force's developmental education programs, but more importantly, the revised instruction provides clearly defines guidance for both the field and those pursuing developmental education opportunities," Colonel White said. The revision encompasses many areas, including the addition of guidance for civilians, wing commander and senior rater responsibilities, the definition and importance of diversity as it relates to developmental education, and the importance of completing opportunities through distance learning programs. Air University education programs and the advanced studies group are included in the revised instruction, which also establishes eligibility requirements, course prerequisites, selection and declination procedures, and information regarding deferments and waivers. Developmental education includes joint PME, international PME, resident and distance learning programs. Also included are Air Force-sponsored advanced academic degree programs, Air Force Institute of Technology, Naval Post-graduate School, National Defense Intelligence College, Advanced Study of Air Mobility, the Air Force Intern Program and the Air Force Fellows Program for total force Airmen. Descriptions of the various development education opportunities are included in the instruction.