Early trials of a new AI-supported learning platform being developed by Autotech Connect and FieldPal.ai in collaboration with Martec Training are showing promising feedback from both students and tutors, just weeks into testing.
The trial, involving Level 2 motor vehicle learners, is exploring how AI prompting can support recall, build learner confidence and improve task completion in vocational training environments.
The West Midlands-based independent training provider is testing the platform in its workshops using tablets and headphones, allowing learners to access guided prompts while carrying out practical tasks.
Designed to support students who may struggle with short-term memory recall or written notetaking, the system prompts learners with structured questions as they work. Their spoken responses are captured and converted into notes that can later be used when completing written job cards or coursework.
Martec, which supports around 250 students across its programmes, identified that some learners find it difficult to retain instructions long enough to accurately record their work after completing a practical activity. Traditional approaches such as handwritten notes can also present challenges for students who struggle with writing or spelling.
Rather than providing answers, the platform prompts learners to explain what they are doing and why, helping them build a record of the task in their own words. The approach is designed to support recall while ensuring the work remains entirely the learner’s own.
Addressing the growing administrative demands of the trade
A growing part of a modern vehicle technician’s role now involves documentation and reporting, from recording diagnostic procedures to completing job cards and compliance records. While essential for accuracy, customer transparency and regulatory requirements, this administrative workload can take up a significant portion of a technician’s day and can be challenging for learners entering the industry.
By prompting learners to talk through the steps they are taking during a task, the platform aims to help them capture that information in real time and develop the documentation skills expected in modern workshops. With the automotive sector continuing to address a well-documented skills shortage, initiatives that improve learner engagement, confidence and retention in training could play an important role in supporting the next generation of technicians.
Testing is currently taking place with both individual learners and small groups, allowing tutors and the Autotech Connect development team to observe how the platform performs in real workshop environments. Feedback from each session is used to refine the software through regular development meetings.
“One of the key advantages of this platform is that it supports both learners and tutors,” comments Darren Dowling, Client Services Director at Autotech Connect. “By capturing interactions as students work through a task, tutors gain greater visibility of how learners approach activities and where they may need additional guidance.
As the platform develops, we are also exploring ways it could support learner wellbeing. For example, by recognising subtle changes in engagement or behaviour, the system could help tutors identify when a student may need additional support. The aim is to provide another tool that complements the expertise of tutors rather than replacing it.”
Earlier work exploring the use of immersive technology in training environments highlighted how digital tools can support learners who need additional assistance. The current trial uses tablets and headphones to create a more familiar and inclusive format that integrates naturally into the workshop environment. In the longer term, there are plans to explore integrating the system with RealWear head-mounted devices to further support hands-free learning during practical tasks.
Tracey Holland, Director at Martec Training, adds: “We’re still in the early stages of testing, but the feedback from both students and tutors has been really encouraging. The system is helping learners capture their thoughts and recall what they’ve done during a task, which can make a big difference when it comes to completing written job cards afterwards.
Over the coming months we’ll continue adding more learning units and gathering feedback as the trial progresses. Once the platform is refined and stable, the intention is to expand its use across more courses and learners, particularly those who require additional learning support.”
Additional learning units will be introduced over the coming months as testing continues, with further feedback gathered from tutors and students to support the platform’s development. Once refined, the platform is expected to be rolled out more widely across courses, supporting Autotech Connect’s wider work to develop technology-led solutions for vocational training.
