Investigating Perceptions of Emerging Technology in Driver Education

The introduction of advanced technologies into novice driver education may improve its efficacy as a young driver crash countermeasure. Underpinned by the Goals for Driver Education and the Technology Acceptance Model, and using a mixed-methods approach, this thesis examined how young drivers, professional driver educators, and parents perceive five advanced technologies used for professional driver education, with a particular focus on driving simulators. Findings suggest that the perceptions of these groups are largely aligned. However, there is complexity in the way they view some technologies, particularly medium fidelity driving simulators and PC-based hazard perception training.