Improving secure handling of air cargo by means of web based blended learning

Container security and contraband interdiction in air cargo have become highly relevant topics at airports all over the world. The European Union (EU) requires detailed measures for standards in the field of aviation security that also cover training and certification of security personnel. In Switzerland, the same standards are being enacted by the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA). The training for security personnel is rather widespread and covers topics as for example legal requirements, the history of terrorists´ acts and current threats, the ability to identify prohibited articles, proficiency in emergency response procedures, and many more. To meet these regulations on security training as economically as possible, this paper suggests using a blended learning instructional design that is based on Gerson´s E-CLASS method and the four step cognitive method by Murphy et al. In order to assess the security training´s impact and efficiency, Kirkpatrick´s four step evaluation model is being suggested.