Development of an electronic OSH information and tuition program for long-distance professional drivers

Status:

completed 12/2012

Aims:

The objective of the project entitled "Development of an electronic OSH information and tuition program for long-distance professional drivers" examined benefits and drawbacks of mobile computer-based learning with regard to the scope for its use and exploitation within this mobile vocational group. Model trials were also conducted to determine whether an additional web-based sales channel could be created in this way for the German Social Accident Insurance institutions. The mobile learning system developed for this purpose extends the existing setting of company OSH measures with consideration for the particular circumstances of the target group. Occupational safety and health and health-related prevention are made available to learners at any time and place, and integrated into their daily working activity. The learning process takes place directly at the workplace, thus favouring implementation (transfer), and creates a positive attitude to action.

Activities/Methods:

During the project, the existing tuition material of the German Social Accident Insurance Institution for the transport industry was first adapted to the mobile learning system and to the particular requirements of this target learner group. New video clips were also produced for the 15 educational areas. Following a trial and practical implementation phase lasting nine months, implementation of the learning subject-matter and applications was evaluated and optimized. The findings obtained were then edited and made available to the accident insurance institutions for the purpose of further assessment and exploitation. An IAG Report is planned for August 2013.

Results:

The gaps that still exist in broadband Internet coverage in Germany impair mobile access to online services. The "online truck" is however an inevitability, if for no other reason than that the haulage industry will demand it. In view of this, it is advantageous for mobile learning systems to be used for continuing vocational education. This considerably improves the continuing vocational education situation for mobile vocational groups, whilst at the same time reducing social isolation, since weekends need no longer be used to the same extent for further training. However, we urgently recommend that online learning be coupled with face-to-face learning, since sustainable learning success cannot otherwise be guaranteed. The online learning component should serve the targets of factual learning. The reduced face-to-face learning component can then focus upon behavioural learning targets and support transfer into practice. Under these conditions, online systems for the prevention work of the German Social Accident Insurance Institutions can be used effectively among mobile vocational groups.

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