Assessing the effectiveness of an online cycling training for adults to master complex traffic situations

Abstract

Acknowledging the significance of both subjective and objective safety in promoting cycling, there is a need for effective measures aimed at improving cycling skills among a broader population. Hence, the aim of the current study is to evaluate and investigate the impact of online cycling training targeted at adults. An online cycling training consisting of three modules was developed to train safe behaviour in seven prototypical safety-relevant situations. 10,000 individuals were invited to participate, with 700 individuals completing the training. The effectiveness of the training was evaluated using a mixed-methods approach combining self-report measures with behavioural measures. Self-report measures were collected using four items of the Cycling Skills Inventory and knowledge-based questions. On a behavioural level, effectiveness was investigated using a virtual reality cycling simulator. Participants’ self-reported cycling skills were evaluated before and after participation in the online training. Three out of four self-reported skills (i.e. predicting traffic situations, showing consideration, knowing how to act) improved on average, across participants. Moreover, participants who cycle less frequently benefited more from the training as they indicated their ability to recognise hazards, to predict traffic situations and to know how to appropriately after completion of the online training. Finally, all participants indicated that they felt more comfortable while cycling after completing the training. In the training evaluation, it was found that the treatment group navigated through traffic more safely on a behavioural level, and/or possessed the required knowledge-based skills in three out of five evaluated situations. These promising findings indicate that online cycling training is one potential avenue to develop cycling skills within a target audience of adult cyclists: not only on a knowledge level, but also on a behavioural level. Notwithstanding limitations, we conclude that an online cycling training can contribute to safer cycling and the promotion of cycling in general.