A new learning experience for truckers

For commercial and private fleets, online training offers a rare opportunity to accomplish two goals at once: reduce the risk of accidents and increase driver productivity.

Managing risk is easier by extending training to drivers as needed, on demand. And with fewer safety meetings in the office, drivers can spend more time behind the wheel generating revenue.

Getting beyond assumptions

In trucking, and in other industries, employee training programs are traditionally created on the assumption that “one-size-fits-all.” As it stands, most training programs in trucking are video or slide presentations, or a combination of the two.

Luma develops training programs for businesses in a variety of industries, including trucking. The approach we use for instructional design is to create a training program that matches the learning culture and learning preferences of the individual.

As an example, the training program that we develop for truck drivers (in conjunction with our partner, StayMetrics) focuses on specific procedures like how to safely change lanes in traffic. Our training programs for nurses also focus on procedures, such as how to care for a patient with diabetes.

Without understanding the learning culture of drivers or nurses, video might be the chosen medium for training. Learning culture is determined by a number of factors that include work environment and job expectations, and learning preferences are unique to the individual.

Both can be determined by looking at the analytics and feedback we obtain directly from the end user.

Our research shows that nurses value the authenticity and social connections from videos and audio recordings of actual nurses. The data also show that most nurses take online training from desktop PCs. By contrast, the majority of truck drivers (66%) access training from their smartphones. This is one reason why many drivers say they prefer having text options along with other formats for training, like video. Multiple formats provide drivers with multiple ways to access and learn the content.

Using all learning modes

The data and feedback we gather from drivers that take our Safety and Health & Wellness trainings make it possible to improve the learning experience, often in real time. The insights we gain lead us to use a combination of video, animation, text, audio and interactive game elements in nearly all of our eNuggets^®.

Overall, the data show that vector-animated video is the favorite medium of truck drivers, though many prefer a different medium depending on the training content.

Below is a summary of what drivers say they like most about each medium.

• Vector-Animated Video: In general, drivers say video helps with understanding procedures such as how to safely enter and exit a vehicle or how to drive in winter weather. In particular, drivers say vector-animated video provides a “hands on” approach to learning.
• Interactivity: Drivers appreciate interactive “point and click” elements included in the training. Many have commented on how it helps to immediately put information into practice. One driver summed up the experience as such: “the more involved you are in the learning process, the more value you get from it.”
• Text: Drivers say that “click through” text in the modules helps them learn at their own pace and review information easily and much faster than re-watching videos.
• Audio: The feedback from drivers shows audio is a useful companion of video and text for retaining information. Some drivers say they prefer audio over text for certain topics. “I retain information better when spoken to,” said one driver, and another commented that “audio works like an alarm in my mind.”

By using real-time analytics and feedback, Luma is able to identify the unique learning preferences of truck drivers to create training programs that are specific to their needs. The end result is an engaging and rewarding learning experience with measurably better outcomes.

Feel free to contact us at any time to discuss driver training options for your company.