Driving Instructors Branch of Unite the Union Special Edition | Page 45

Phase 1 (In car) Duration 3-5 min max

In this initial stage the instructor presents the learner with a distraction test (Stroop test) where they are to complete two similar exercises. The first exercise is where the colour and words match; the learner is timed on how quickly they can say the colours. Once completed the learner is asked to complete the same test but this time the words and the colours do not match; again the learner is timed to see how quickly they can say the colours. The times are then compared. The instructor should then assist the learner to identify how difficult or easy they found the exercise and how processing two alternative streams of information increased the difficulty of even a simple task.

Phase 2 (Self learning)

Make a list of possible personal distraction and how they can prevent the learner from concentrating on driving safely.

Phase 3 (In car) Duration 3-5 min max

In this final stage the instructor will review and discuss the distractions listed and how they could be linked to their journey planning. The instructor should encourage the learner to think of realistic coping strategies that they feel would work for them.