Soon the DSA will stop publishing the actual theory test question to the general public but what does this mean to you? First let’s look at the reasons. Originally it was felt that every Driving Instructor would start to teach the theory test. In practice many do not and simply just tell their pupils to buy a CD ROM or book from a local retailer. In my experience rarely do I see instructors actually devoting any time to theory in the practical lessons. Some do of course and I regularly se some in my local Tesco’s teaching theory over a cup of coffee. What this has meant is that pupils have been left up to their own devises and just study the questions as they do not know what else to do. Pupils have not learned the actual rules and how to apply them. God trainers will carry out a mix of theory and practical so experiential learning take place and this helps the learning to stay with the learner.
From next year the questions will not be published, however that will not stop a number of publishers offering similar style questions. I suspect little will change from many instructors. 1st 4 Driving has always offered a structured theory test program. Now in its 10th year and numerous updates it still proves to be a winner with pupils. Currently pupils can download or can obtain from their instructor however plans are underway to have interactive E-Learning structured theory training in conjunction with Driver Training Education.
Using structured theory training allows the pupil and instructor to share responsibility for this learning and helps the pupils to understand how to apply the various rules for the road. Each instructor has a set of knowledge question they can test the learner with and instead of just giving an answer will with coaching allow the learner to find the answer themselves. When the learner has passed their test then the true value of this style of learning can really be seen. Director of training Dave Foster say’s ‘structured theory training will come into its own when the learner is not a learner and has to make the decisions for themselves, it really can save lives’.
Ask your instructor about structured theory training, if they do not know what you are on about then maybe there is a decision to be made now…………
