7-16. Utilizing Active Learning to Enhance Training Effectiveness

Traditional lecture-style training has limitations in terms of participant comprehension and retention in EHS (Environmental, Health, and Safety) education. The solution gaining attention is active learning, a learner-centered approach. Active learning enhances the effectiveness of education by having participants think, discuss, and experience things for themselves. This approach is highly effective in the EHS field.

Fostering Proactive Learning

Active learning's primary advantage is that it promotes "proactive learning." EHS education requires participants to not only acquire knowledge but also to be able to recognize dangers and take action to prevent accidents and disasters. Instead of just absorbing information, participants can engage in group discussions and case studies to identify problems and devise solutions, making the learning directly relevant to their work.

Hands-On Experience and Practice

Using real-world scenarios for role-playing and simulations is also highly effective. For example, drills for a chemical spill or group discussions on near-miss incidents give participants a realistic feel for the situation and help them develop practical skills. This hands-on, experience-based learning leads to better memory retention and improves the ability to respond quickly on the job.

Building a Collective Safety Culture

Active learning also deepens interaction among participants, which contributes to forming a collective safety culture. When employees from different departments and positions collaborate on a task, it creates a shared understanding of EHS, promoting cross-departmental safety awareness. This kind of organizational learning encourages behavioral changes in every employee.

Leveraging Technology

Lately, companies have also been incorporating ICT (Information and Communication Technology) into their active learning programs. Using online meeting systems for discussions or VR/AR for risk simulations enhances the quality of learning regardless of time or location. This is especially useful for multinational corporations, as it allows them to provide consistent education to employees in remote locations.

Summary

Active learning in EHS education is a powerful tool for achieving behavioral change and embedding a safety culture, going beyond mere knowledge acquisition. Companies should actively incorporate active learning into their training systems to drive continuous improvement in their EHS standards.