Other Frequent and Emerging Methods of Learning and Development Used in Aviation Industry

It was evident when emphasizing on Experiential Learning Theory, that people often learn from experience. Thus, most learning mainly occurs at workplace. (Armstrong and Taylor, 2014). The 70:20:10 model explained in a previous blog post confirms it further (Arets, Jennings and Heijnen, 2016).

As Armstrong and Taylor (2014) indicates, learning is most effective when people do it themselves (self-directed learning), but they need guidance. They further explain that, self- directed learning and experiential learning can be enhanced in the workplace by methods of induction, planned experience, coaching, mentoring, e-learning and planned development and that these methods can be supplemented by formal training such as training programs and events. Thus, the effectiveness of Learning and Development can be increased by connecting the available methods which is called blended learning.

“A training method as a set of systematic procedures, activities, or techniques that are designed to impart KASAs (knowledge, abilities, skills, or attitudes) to the participants that have direct utility in enhancing their job performance.” (Martin, Kolomitro and Lam, 2013, pp.12)

Training and development should enable organizations to gain a competitive advantage and bring about their business strategies to achieve their business goals (Noe, 2010). Organizations need to be mindful to minimize the costs and gain maximum benefits by learning and methods of training. However, it has been possible to reduce the incurring cost on providing training to employees by the introduction of new technologies thereby increase the effectiveness of the learning environment, and to help attain organizational goals (Noe, 2010).

In doing so, many organizations' training programs use a combination of methods with the aim of making the most of each method’s strengths for learning and delivering. Lecture, on -the- job training, coaching and mentoring, self-development, simulations, case studies, business games, job rotation, action learning, computer-based training, online learning or e- learning, continuing professional development, Blended learning and distance Learning are common methods that are practiced by organizations (Noe, 2010).

When discussing training methods Noe (2010) classifies them under traditional methods and modern technology-based learning methods. However, organizations utilize both these methods for improving learning and development.

Following are some examples of methods that are used in the aircraft maintenance department of the organization which I work for.

Lecture

Is where a trainer verbally communicates what they require their learner to learn (Martin, Kolomitro and Lam, 2013). Audio visual techniques are generally used in conjunction with lectures to show trainees real-life experiences and examples (Noe, 2010).

Lecture is the common method used in the aviation college. The college does not only focus on the traditional method where a lecture is conducted by professional trainers and qualified engineers within the classroom but also in the field where actual work is being performed. This way, students are able to grasp what they learn effectively.

May it be a basic course in aircraft maintenance for trainees or a continuation development program for aircraft engineers, lecture helps to deliver required information to the group efficiently in an organized manner (SriLankan Aviation College, 2018).

 Figure 11: Lecture (field visit lecture)

Source: (Srilankan Aviation College, 2018)

On -the- Job Training

Refers to inexperienced employees learning in the work environment. This generally occurs during work by observing their seniors and performing the job and trying to imitate their behavior (Noe, 2010).

This is one of the most used type of informal training at the aircraft maintenance department. OJT is useful when training students of the aviation academy and newly recruited aircraft trainee technicians, and upgrading experienced aircraft technicians’ skills when new technology is introduced (SriLankan Aviation College, 2018).

Coaching and Mentoring

As stated by Serrat (2009) Coaching and mentoring are ways that aids management and a set of skills to support staff and deliver results. As Explained by Ganesh et al. (2015) coaching is the process where improvement of performance and development regarding skills is acquired through instructions or tutoring. While mentoring refers to a more experienced individual assisting a less experienced one in improving a career. He further states that, both coaching and mentoring are used as key management interventions to improve skills of employees and encourages their personal goals.

Coaching and mentoring is a significant way used by the organization which I work for. Engineers give personal attention to aircraft technicians whenever their performance or motivation levels requires to be increased.

 Figure 12: Coaching and mentoring

(An LAE personally giving attention to work performed by Technicians)

Source: (Srilankan Airlines, 2020)

Self-Development

In self-development, employees learn themselves and take responsibility for all aspects of learning. On- the -job training has a direct influence on it. The effectiveness of self-development depends on an employee’s motivation to learn (Noe, 2010).

Air craft maintenance department require their employees to read and be informative on relevant publications issued by the organization related to the safety and quality development of the organization. Safety notices, quality notices, MOE (Maintenance Organization Exposition) revisions are a few to name (Srilanakan Airlines MOE, 2021).

Further, the organizations which I work for hold the employees responsible and require them to take the initiative to learn with information such training courses, and continuation training (human factors, legislation etc.) while they are at a certain designation (Srilanakan Airlines MOE, 2021).

Simulations

A simulation is a training method that depicts a real-life situation (Noe, 2010). It shows with trainees’ decisions and the resulting outcomes what would happen if they were on the job (Noe, 2010). The main disadvantage of this method is the high cost (Noe, 2010) in (Martin, Kolomitro and Lam, 2013). Development in software and computer technology has enhanced a great deal the learning that results from simulators (Martin, Kolomitro and Lam, 2013).

A common example of the use of simulators for training in the aircraft maintenance department is the ACT (Airbus Competence Training) where a trainee can use to simulate various maintenance activities (SriLankan Aviation College, 2018).

Case Studies

Case studies give trainees the opportunity to develop skills by presenting a problem, without a solution, or with a solution, (as an example) of how to solve it (Martin, Kolomitro and Lam, 2013).

Trainees in the aviation college are being trained on different subject matter such as human factors using case studies (SriLankan Aviation College, 2018).

Job Rotation

As explained by Martin, Kolomitro and Lam (2013) this involves training for a job by working in the job for a limited time period while still having the original job.

Aircraft Engineers from line maintenance and base maintenance are assigned to work at the aviation training college on a rotational basis to provide training to train the trainees (SriLankan Aviation College, 2018).

Action Learning

In action learning teams or work groups are given a problem to solve (Noe 2010). They work on solving it and creating an action plan, and then the organization holds them responsible for carrying out the plan (Serrat, 2017).

The organization I work, use action learning to solve important problems, such as rectifications of aircraft findings from internal audits using dedicated groups. They work on finding the causes and come up with suggestions and a plan to rectify them.

Continuing Professional Development

Continuing Professional Development refers to maintaining and improving knowledge skills and experience relevant to the professional activities. Continuing Professional development can take various forms from formal educational courses to learning through everyday work practices. (Collin, Heijden and Lewis, 2012)

In the organization I’m employed, safety is considered a key element. To be in line with the said fact, it is mandatory that Aircraft Engineers and Technicians undergo a continuation training every 2 years. The refresher training is given on the areas of Human factors, EWIS (Electrical Wiring Interconnection System), Aircraft Type Training, ETOPS (Extended Range Twin Engine Operation) and Organizational Procedure and Fuel Tank Safety Training etc. (Srilanakan Ailines MOE, 2021).

Computer Based Training

This is an interactive training experience where computers are used as learning aids (Noe, 2010). The most common method of computer-based training is software running on a personal computer (Noe, 2010).

Airbus Aircraft type training courses are similar examples for Computer based learning where training is aided by software base application (SriLankan Aviation College, 2018).

Online Learning or E-Learning

Online Learning, or E-Learning, is the delivery of training by computer online via the Internet (Noe, 2010). E-Learning can also be explained as the use of information and communication technology to enhance and support learning (Oye, Salleh and Iahad, 2012). Since it involves electronic networks, it enables information and instruction to be delivered, shared, and updated instantly.

E-learning examples are Aircraft Type Training, EWIS Training, Fuel Tank Safety Training, Human Factor and Legislation Training (SriLankan Aviation College, 2018).

Blended Learning

Blended learning is a combination of online learning, face to-face instruction, and other methods for distributing knowledge/skills and instruction (Besset and Burton, 2013).

Blended learning courses such as Aircraft Type Training courses facilitate learners with the positive features of both face-to-face instruction and technology-based delivery and instructional methods.

Distance Learning

Distance learning comprises of virtual classrooms, with capabilities such as projection of still, animated, and video images; instructor-participant audio discussion; sharing of computer software applications; and whiteboard marking tools. (Noe, 2010)

With the prevailing situation aviation training school conducts most of their courses on distance learning methods using virtual classrooms. Thereby, the ongoing courses are up to date and safety is assured (SriLankan Aviation College, 2018).

The following short video will brief on the advantages of E-Learning and its approaches in the aviation industry.

Video 5: E-Learning in the Aviation Industry

Source: (E - Learning in the Aviation Industry, 2015)

List of References

Arets, J, Jennings, C and Heijnen, V (2016) Primer-702010-into-action.pdf. [Online]. Available at < http://702010 institiute.com.>. [Accessed on 3o^th August 2021].

Armstrong, M and Taylor, S. (2014) Armstrong Handbook of Human Resource Practice. 13^th ed. New Delhi, Kongan Page Limited.

Bessette, D. and Burton, L.S. (2013) Transforming Your Organization to Blended Learning: A Paradigm Shift. Academia.edu. Available at 1< https://www.academia.edu/3062523/Transforming_Your_Organization_to_Blended_Learning_A_Paradigm_Shift.>. [Accessed on 30^th  August 2021].

Collin, K., Heijden, B.V.D and Lewis, P. (2012) Continuing professional development. International Journal of Training and Development, 16(3), pp.155-163.

Ganesh, A., Bozas, A., Subban, M and Munapo, E. (2015) The benefits of mentoring and coaching in the public sector. Journal of Governance and Regulation, 4(3), pp. 16-29.

Martin, O.B., Kolomitro, K. and Lam, T.C.M. (2013) Training methods: a review and analysis. Human Resource Development Review, 13(1), pp. 11-35.

Noe, R.A (2010) Employee Training and Development. 5^th ed. New York, McGraw-Hill/Irwin.

Oye, N.D., Salleh, M and Iahad, N.A. (2012) E-learning methodologies and tools. (IJACSA) International Journal of Advanced Computer Science and Applications, 3(2), pp. 48-52.

Serrat, O. (2009) Coaching and mentoring. Knowledge Solution [Online]. Available at < https://www.researchgate.net.>. [Accessed on 30^th August 2021].

Serrat, O. (2017) Action Learning. Knowledge Solution. 1^st edition. Singapore: Springer, 589-594.

Srilankan Aviation College (2018) Srilanka Aviation College [Online]. Available at <https://www.srilankanaviationcollege.com/what-we-offer/Course/EASA-Part-66-B1 [Accessed on 01^st September 2021].

SriLankan Airlines (2020) Engineering. Available at< https://www.srilankan.com/en_uk/coporate/about-us.>. [Accessed on 01^st September 2021].

Srilankan Airlines (2021) EASA Approved Maintenance Organisation Exposition, Issue 04 Revision 08, Colombo: Srilankan Airlines.

TalentLMS (2015) eLearning in the Aviation Industry [Online]. Available at: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zg_iEHko5g,.>. [Accessed on 31^stAugust 2021].