Automated assessment and training of novice drivers

This paper describes an experimental approach, including a driving simulation, which is designed to provide orientation, subject record keeping, training, performance measurement and evaluation of driver behavior. The application includes a driving simulator system that permits the programming of driving scenarios that control independent and dependent variables. Orientation and tutorial material were presented as part of the training regimen. Driving scenarios were designed to present cognitively complex situations involving hazardous, time critically scripted pedestrian, traffic and signal situations. The severity of the hazardous situations were designed to lead to driving errors for untrained drivers, but permit trained drivers to successfully accomplish them. Performance results illustrate the training value of learning from errors.