The transport sector had no choice but to adapt during the COVID-19 pandemic. Challenges such as travel restrictions and a surge in demand for goods and services were problems faced globally by transport teams. As a result, issues such as knowing how to train staff effectively and in a safe and compliant manner became a front-line matter.

Outside of the pandemic, and in addition to the need for effective safety programmes, the transport sector suffers from a high rate of work-related accidents and fatalities, with 1.25 million deaths each year globally. This begs the question, when it comes to training employees effectively, what have we learnt over the last few years?

Prioritise safety and flexibility

Adopting new training methods that prioritise safety and flexibility has led to a significant shift towards online training. Many transportation businesses have adopted e-learning platforms, which allow employees to access training materials remotely and at their own pace. This approach has the added benefit of scaling training, as you no longer need to gather in large groups for training sessions.

This shift in the mindset of how employees consume training and learning materials has enabled the transportation sector to build momentum by moving towards learning-in-the-flow-of-work. But what does this mean?

Learning In the Flow of Work

On-the-job training is crucial for the transport sector because it allows employees to acquire the practical skills and knowledge necessary to perform their duties effectively and safely. The transport sector is highly regulated, and employees must comply with various laws and regulations.  Moreover, the transport sector is constantly evolving, and new technologies and practices are being introduced regularly. Earn while you learn training enables employees to stay up to date with these changes and develop new skills as necessary. It’s also essential for the transport sector because it allows employees to gain experience and develop their problem-solving skills.

Transport employees often encounter unexpected situations requiring quick decisions based on their knowledge and experience. On-the-job training allows employees to develop these skills and gain the experience necessary to handle these situations effectively; the pandemics’ continuously evolving lockdown measures varying from region to region is a prime example of this.

Accessible learning 

Accommodating the needs of the employee and respecting their work-life balance is essential for learners hoping to enter training courses. Certain employees may require extra time, assistance or technology. Providing course material that can be accessed anywhere, regardless of internet connection, will enable employees to access training materials at their own pace. It is also cost-effective, as it eliminates the need for travel and accommodation expenses.

What’s next for L&D in the transport sector?

In the UK, 1 in 3 working adults lack the essential digital skills for work which are becoming essential qualities as technology becomes more engrained in everyday life.

We may begin to see slightly more advanced forms of learning in the transport sector, such as virtual and augmented reality technology. These can provide immersive training experiences that simulate real-world transport scenarios, allowing employees to develop practical skills in a safe and controlled environment. This could help employees to complete part of their simulation training, which is critical for the transport sector, where safety is a top priority. Virtual simulators can create a realistic environment that mimics real-life situations that are more sustainable and accessible, preparing them for real-life simulation training. Other potential trends like the use of gamification could see employees using game-like elements to engage employees and make learning more enjoyable.

This innovative approach could be particularly effective in the transport sector, where training can be repetitive and monotonous. With more than 45,000 vacancies in the transport sector, it’s clear to see that innovation in training additional assistance is required to ensure that the right people are hired and trained to a safe standard.