Motorcycle training in Victoria : evaluation of rider training curriculum in Victoria.

This report presents an evaluation of the rider training courses (both the learner and probationary courses) from the various rider training providers. The evaluation determined the balance between attitudinal and vehicle skill based components and provided recommendations. Most of the evaluations of training courses identified in the literature review did not set out to compare the effects of the attitudinal and vehicle control components of training. Some evaluation studies suggested that riders who scored higher on vehicle control skills in some tests had more crashes later. The newer tests requiring higher levels of vehicle control skills did not reduce crash rates. Conversely, there was some suggestion that training in cognitive skills can improve these skills and reduce crash involvement. However, to ensure that cognitive skills components receive sufficient focus in training, there is a need to ensure that they are emphasised in the learner permit and licence tests. The review of the delivery of the course components in Victoria found that vehicle control skills receive about two to three times as much course time as attitudinal skills in both the learner permit and licence courses. Yet all the providers felt that the students, particularly at learner level, had insufficient skill and inadequate attitudinal training to ensure their safety while learning on the road. Commercial considerations severely constrained the time available to teach both attitudinal and vehicle control skills. Some possible solutions appeared to be increasing the efficiency of delivery of courses by improved time management and improving the effectiveness and consistency of presentation of the attitudinal components. Even if these improvements are implemented, it is still likely that trainees may continue to have insufficient skill and inadequate attitudinal training to ensure their safety while learning on the road. The review also identified a need to develop a hazard perception program and test that can be introduced by all training providers. (A)