Instruction, Methodology, and Evaluation, Part 4

Question 1: Explain how a driver education program can reduce the risks of newly licensed drivers.

Answer 1: As a driver education instructor, it is important that you recognize the risks and behaviors that contribute to higher accident rates among newly licensed drivers. You can take steps to help mitigate these risks. First, recognize the common errors made by new drivers (lack of focus, inability to recognize hazards, speeding, etc.) and give those topics proper attention in all areas of instruction. Next, explain the risks to your students so that they understand extra caution is called for in their first months of driving. Finally, underscore safe driving procedures at night and give students strategies for driving safely when teenage passengers are in the car. Also, emphasize the importance of remaining alcohol and drug free whenever students are driving.

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Question 2: Describe how driver education objectives are changing and why.

Answer 2: When driver education programs were first conceived of and put into practice, the overall objective was to create in drivers a lifetime of responsible driving. However, research shows that driver education programs rarely influence a driver beyond a year's time. By this time, most drivers have become experienced and competent and are generally safe to share the road with. However, because novice drivers present such a higher accident risk, driver education objectives are beginning to shift to reduce risks during the first 6 to 12 months of driving. This goal should be attainable as this is the period when a driver education program is proven to have the most influence.

Question 3: Describe the three ways that driver education programs strive to instill safe driving habits.

Answer 3: Driver education programs instill safe driving habits by imparting knowledge, teaching skills, and encouraging a proper attitude. Knowledge is information learned through instructor lectures and textbooks. Skills training gives young drivers a chance to put the classroom knowledge they have learned into practice. Skills are mastered over time through hands-on training and practice. Attitude can be the most difficult component to convey, but it may also be the most important. As a driving instructor you should attempt to teach not only a long-term attitude of responsibility, you should also impart specific beliefs that support course objectives and safe driving habits. You can do this by not only teaching students good habits but by linking those habits to the safety of the student and the people around him or her.

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