Dear FIAG,
We currently use an online E Learning programme to assist with our development of our ‘at work’ drivers, both those in company owned vehicles and the ‘grey fleet.’ However, I often get kick back from drivers asking me why they should complete a module about ‘van driving’ or ‘trailer towing’ as examples. Can you provide me with some advice please?
Kind regards
Sharon
Learning and Development Manager
Hi Sharon
Thanks for the great question and firstly, well done on having a ‘driver development’ programme in place, over 80% of companies still have not even started to address this important issue!
If I may, I would firstly like to address the subject of E Learners, a double-edged sword for me I’m afraid! Over the last 25 years I have written many of these for both my own training business and for other companies to use as part of their training platforms.
In my opinion, E Learners form an important and integral part of a ‘driver development’ programme but the important word here is, ‘part!’ I like to think that the key element to a well-constructed programme is the early use of in-vehicle training (and face to face workshops) where a driver has the opportunity to learn new things, and to be reminded of things long forgotten, in a relaxed and informal training session that can be tailored to their own specific needs by a ‘fleet driver trainer.’ The opportunity to ask questions and even disagree with the trainer is very important in the ‘learning’ process, something not afforded in the E Learner scenario.
Therefore, the E Learners should be used to support other training and not replace it, when taken in an ongoing continuous learning programme, drip fed periodically and, preferably, delivered in an order chosen by the driver they become reminders of the things previously learnt in the face-to-face environment. They will also provide new information but as part of an ongoing programme they become less confrontational and more of a welcome reminder.
And so, to your question, eventually!
Driving is all about being tolerant as well as learning concentration, observation and anticipation skills. But how can we be tolerant if we don’t understand the issues that others may have that we do not?
For example, certain types of vehicle are not permitted in the outside lane of multi lane roads and so if we drive at 55 mph in the middle lane going up a slight incline it is hardly surprising that a large truck is very close to the back of us; they are not necessarily being aggressive but merely trying to get their huge mass up the hill, one that we as a car driver may not even have noticed!
Speed restrictions on ‘national speed limit’ roads apply to other classes of vehicles such as vans, trucks and those towing and so knowing these will help your drivers to be more tolerant, and less stressed when they know that the vehicle in front is merely complying with the law and not just driving like Miss daisy!
Drivers hours apply to all those driving for business and many of these vehicles are fitted with, and governed, by tachograph usage and so there is no room for manoeuvre in this regard. There are rules in place that govern driver breaks, total daily driving limits, weekly and fortnightly hours and even time off between shifts. Anything that we can do to let the ‘workhorses’ of this country get down the road by letting them change lanes, pull out of junctions etc will assist them, make you new friends and, make sure your local store is stocked and your parcel is delivered on time to your home!
And so, and again it’s only my opinion, to spend 15 minutes understanding the issues that others have will pay back big time and even if your driver learns absolutely nothing from it, it is only 15 minutes and I’m sure they waste that amount of time once every 3 months down an Instagram hole or reading Facebook!
