Can driver education be improved by computer based training of cognitive skills?

Deficits in cognitive skills, such as hazard perception, appear to have a tremendous influence on accident involvement of younger drivers. However, conventional forms of driver training have largely failed to build skills that extend beyond the provision of a descriptive knowledge of how to drive. Computer based training (CBT) has the potential to provide new ways to deal with this problem. In this study, a CBT module was developed to complement existing driver training programs by addressing critical cognitive skills. The CBT made use of video sequences of potentially hazardous driving situations, including multiple-choice questions with adaptive feedback, to increase levels of elaboration and understanding. To test effects, a sample of learner drivers completed either CBT, paper based training with similar content, or no training at all. A simulator experiment confirmed that CBT participants exhibited earlier glances towards critical cues and relevant areas in the visual field than participants of the other two groups. It is concluded that CBT can potentially assist instruction of cognitive skills necessary for save driving.