# Classification Refresher Course (Self-Paced)

Canonical URL: <https://www.graduateschool.edu/courses/classification-refresher-course-self-paced>

## Overview

Refresh your knowledge on classification essentials and more advanced classification issues, and go home with a quick and easy-to-use reference guide. Enhance their skills by completing two online classification projects with instructor input and feedback.

## What you'll learn

- Apply the Factor Evaluation Standard (FES) format and Narrative Standard format.
- Write defensible, well-documented evaluation statements.
- Classify developmental positions and consider the implications of Statements of Difference (SoD).
- Apply the General Schedule Leader Grade Evaluation Guide (GSLGEG).
- Apply the General Schedule Supervisory Guide (GSSG).

## Curriculum

#### Module 1: Applying the Factor Evaluation System (FES) & Narrative System

- Review GS structure, key OPM references, and how FES and narrative systems differ.
- Apply the nine FES factors, primary standard, and job family/occupational standards.
- Follow step-by-step FES procedures to assign factor levels, total points, and convert to grade.
- Recognize narrative factors and when to use narrative standards instead of FES.

#### Module 2: Writing Evaluation Statements

- Understand when evaluation statements are required and their purpose.
- Use the standard format: references, background, series/title, grade analysis, conclusion.
- Document factor/grade determinations with comparisons and representative examples.
- Produce defensible write-ups that support final pay plan, series, title, and grade.

#### Module 3: Position Descriptions (PDs) & Statements of Difference (SoD)

- Define OPM’s “standard of adequacy” for PDs and essential PD components.
- Explain SoDs, when to use them, and how they relate to developmental/target PDs.
- Align SoDs with staffing: job analyses, grade-specific KSAs, and recruitment implications.

#### Module 4: General Schedule Leader Grade Evaluation Guide (GSLGEG)

- Identify coverage and applicability for work leaders/team leaders.
- Apply Parts I and II procedures to evaluate leader duties and determine grade.
- Translate guide criteria into proper titles, series, and grades for leader positions.

#### Module 5: General Schedule Supervisory Guide (GSSG)

- Understand coverage, format, and the six supervisory factors.
- Evaluate program scope, complexity, and supervisory authorities to assign factor levels.
- Convert factor levels to supervisory grades and document determinations.

#### Module 6: Classification Issues & Pitfalls

- Discuss current agency challenges and common errors that affect equity and consistency.
- Strengthen documentation practices, precedent use, and quality control checks.
- Surface unresolved topics for targeted discussion and follow-up.

#### Module 7: Applying What You’ve Learned

- Complete hands-on projects using FES procedures and the GSSG.
- Draft PDs and evaluation statements; refine with peer and instructor feedback.
- Use checklists to QA your work and prepare final classification packages.

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $1299