Commentary driving is a great tool for students who have difficulty multi-tasking or become confused when they are in a complex situation (such as a busy intersection.) This tool enables students to identify situations that would cause them to make a change in speed or direction.
They should use Commentary Driving to recite the tasks ahead.
- Comments are expected to take place before the fact, not after.
- Students should talk about things they see and the action they intend to take.
Comments should include:
- Signs (do they see them and understand what they mean?)
- Signals (If the light is changing, or about to change, what action should they take?)
- Roadway markings
- Hazardous situations (Do they see it and know how to respond?)
- Driving practices of other drivers. (Are they watching other drivers and anticipating their actions or mistakes?)Comments should be specific; general terms such as “checking conditions” and “will move into proper lane,” should be avoided.
Commentary Driving Evaluates Students ability to:
- Recognize and practice problem solving
- Recognize the vast number of things a driver should be watching for and that driving is a full time job
- Implements the knowledge and driving skills previously learned
- Judge how far ahead one should observe and how early to start taking action.
- Use eyes efficiently
- Recognize hazardous situations in time
Once the student progresses, you can play the “What If” game. A parent can make suggestions such as: What if a child runs into the road. How would you react? What is your escape plan?