Training Effectiveness and Improvement Strategies for Motor Vehicle Safety and Technical Inspectors: Evidence from Two Vocational Institutions in Fujian, China

This study evaluated the effectiveness of training programs for motor vehicle safety and technical inspectors at Quanzhou Vocational and Technical University and Zhangzhou Institute of Science and Technology in Fujian, China. It examined how training content relevance, adequacy of training resources and support, institutional context, and respondent characteristics relate to perceived training satisfaction and effectiveness. A mixed-methods design was used, combining survey data from 384 respondents with qualitative interview data. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, regression analysis, and structural equation modeling, while qualitative responses were examined through thematic analysis. The findings showed that the relevance and applicability of training content and the adequacy of training resources and support were significant predictors of training satisfaction and effectiveness. Institutional context also mattered, with respondents from Quanzhou Vocational and Technical University reporting slightly higher satisfaction, possibly reflecting its longer history and stronger industry connections in motor vehicle safety training. Demographic variables were not consistently significant predictors in the regression results. Qualitative findings reinforced the quantitative results, emphasizing the importance of job-relevant content, practical application, adequate resources, trainer professionalism, and institutional support. The study concludes that effective inspector training requires continuous alignment with job responsibilities, updated technical content, interactive delivery methods, trainer development, and stronger feedback mechanisms. The findings provide practical guidance for vocational institutions seeking to improve technical training quality and regulatory workforce readiness.