Evaluating the effectiveness of distance learning in delivering Ontario's JHSC certification training
Reasons for the study
In responding to a number of recommendations to strengthen research investments in occupational health and safety, the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development (MLTSD) has made building and using the best evidence a priority objective in the Occupational Health and Safety Strategy 2021-2026. The goal of this project is to support the implementation of this priority objective by measuring the relative effectiveness of three different modes of delivering training: in-class, distance and e-learning. The project is rigorously measuring learning outcomes among Ontario workers taking Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) Certification (Part 1) training delivered by three of the province's health and safety associations (HSAs).
Objectives of the study
- Review the evidence on the relative effectiveness of real-time online learning for occupational purposes
- Use surveys to measure the JHSC-relevant knowledge of Ontario workers before and after they take JHSC Certification (Part 1) training
- Analyze survey data to determine whether in-class, distance and e-learning training differ in their impact on JHSC-relevant knowledge and other learning outcomes
- Provide evaluation evidence that will allow for continuous improvement of certification training
Target audience
The results will provide evidence to the MLTSD, HSAs, HSA-based training providers, private-sector training providers, employers, workers, JHSC members and OHS professionals about the effectiveness of various modes of training delivery.
Related research summaries
- Comparing real-time online work-related training with face-to-face formats. Research Highlights: Institute for Work & Health, August 2022.
Related scientific publications
- Robson LS, Chen C, Imam S, Biswas A, Landsman V, Shahidi FV, Smith PM, Mustard C. Differing effects of in-person and online methods of delivering JHSC Certification Part 1 Training. Institute for Work & Health; 2023.
- Robson LS, Irvin E, Padkapayeva K, Begum M, Zukowski M. A rapid review of systematic reviews on the effectiveness of synchronous online learning in an occupational context. American Journal of Industrial Medicine. 2022;65(7):613-619. doi:10.1002/ajim.23365.
Related interviews and articles
- Which is better, online or in-person learning?. Canadian HR Reporter. August 22, 2022. Available from: https://www.hrreporter.com/focus-areas/training-and-development/which-is-better-online-or-in-person-learning/369195
IWH Speaker Series presentations
- Is in-person training more effective than online training? Findings from a study of Ontario workers. IWH Speaker Series. September 19, 2023.
Project status
Ongoing
Research team
Collaborators and partners
Prevention Office, Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development
Infrastructure Health & Safety Association
Public Services Health & Safety Association
Workplace Safety & Prevention Services
Funded by
Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development