Chinese truck drivers' attitudes toward feedback by technology: a quantitative approach

This study examined Chinese truck drivers' attitudes toward receiving feedback about their driving performance by in-cab technology and explored the best ways of providing feedback to truck drivers in China. The similarities and differences between US and Chinese drivers were also compared. Survey data were collected from 200 long-haul truck drivers in China to provide quantitative information. The results of the current study were compared to the results of a previous study published in 2006 which utilized focus group discussions with Chinese truck drivers, and to the data of a similar survey conducted in the US and published in 2005. Results of the current study showed that Chinese truck drivers were eager for more feedback about their driving performance and they were willing to receive feedback from technology. Although negative feedback was most prevalent in their working environment and was considered acceptable if it improves driving safety, they considered positive feedback as more helpful to safe driving. They perceived many benefits of receiving feedback by technology and comparatively few drawbacks and concerns. Compared to US truck drivers who strongly preferred feedback from a human (e.g., safety director, dispatcher) rather than from technology, Chinese truck drivers were more positive in terms of receiving feedback from technology. They considered feedback from technology to be more objective and scientific than feedback from humans. This study showed the importance of considering cross-culture differences when planning to apply interventions in different countries and cultures.