Problems and Practices in Traffic Safety and Driver Education

Safety Education 410/510

Spring 2001

TEXTS: Quensel, Warren P. Handbook for Learning To Drive, Second Edition 1998

Teacher Guide for the Handbook for Learning to Drive Second Edition 1998.

Safety Enterprises: Bloomington, IL.

Supplementary Texts:

Quensel, Warren P. 1997 HOW TO BE A MORE PERCEPTIVE DRIVER, Safety Enterprises: Bloomington, IL.

American Automobile Association. 1997. How To Drive, Ninth Edition. AAA Association Communication: Heathrow, FL.

COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS: Ability to use word processing.

INSTRUCTOR: Frank L. Hubbard

212 Communications Building

696-4664 (work) 453-2453 (home)

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

A survey course designed for supervisors of traffic accident prevention programs. Examines and evaluates problems, attitudes, philosophies, activities and administrative practices in school, city, and state traffic safety programs. Supplements basic teacher training courses in traffic safety.

The course will introduce "Driving Task Analysis" with emphasis on risk-perception and management and the decision-making process. In addition the course will provide a practical look at school, government and support organizations as they affect traffic safety.

SED 510 students will be required to do an additional outside research project.

DESIRED LEARNER OUTCOMES:

Students will recognize

· the importance and complexity of the Highway Transportation System (HTS) and consequences of system failures.

· social nature of, and the mental and physical requirements for effective performance of the driving task.

· magnitude and nature of the risk inherent in the operation of a motor vehicle within the HTS.

· multiple variables that influence an individuals awareness of, and ability to manage risk.

· importance of developing behaviors that better enable an individual to manage risk when operating a motor vehicle within the HTS.

· critical nature of pre-driving preparation and visual performance to effective operation of a motor vehicle.

· importance of operator knowledge and conformity to traffic rules and regulations.

· influence of physiology, neurological and psychological well being on an individual's ability to operate a motor vehicle effectively.

· importance of assessing a vehicle relative to user needs, fit, visibility, handling and response prior to purchase.

· importance of vehicle maintenance to safe/efficient operation.

· social, moral obligations relative to the safety of self and others an individual assumes when operating within the HTS.

· importance of trip planning [timing and routes] even in everyday travel.

· laws and/or regulations for Driver Education and scheduling problems.

· traffic safety in government and industry and support organizations for educational and safety interests.

GRADING AND ATTENDANCE POLICY :

I will use the standard 90%, 80%, 70% and 60% for grading purpose.

Attendance will be taken, and since we only meet once a week, missing two classes may result in your final grade being lowered. Examinations are listed on the course schedule. Make-up examinations will be given at the discretion of the instructor and only with a valid excuse. Assignments will be due at the next class meeting after they are given.

COURSE PHILOSOPHY:

This course is going to attempt to blend theoretical information you will receive in class (new and old) and allow you to apply it in a! practical real-world setting. It is imperative that you listen and ask questions of things you do not understand. There is no silly or stupid questions when something is not understood about traffic safety.