A study was undertaken to investigate the content of driver training and attitudes towards computerised testing of hazard perception skills using the introduction of the VicRoads Hazard Perception Test (HPT) as an example. A review of the literature regarding hazard perception was carried out and Klein's (1989, 1993) Recognition-Primed Decision Making Model was introduced as a basis for developing a better understanding of hazard perception as a cognitive process with behavioural outcomes. In-depth interviews with fifty driving instructors were undertaken to investigate the methods used to teach cognitive based driving skills, and to determine attitudes towards the computerised tests and the HPT. It was concluded that driving instructors were aware of the skills essential for safe driving; however, these were not the traits they necessarily looked for when recommending that learner drivers attempt the driver licence test. (Author/publisher)
Abstract