Objective: The Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) initiated research to determine if a blended approach of instruction was effective for teaching the driving technique “determining and following an ideal line of travel (LOT).� The LOT is defined as the most efficient path to steer a vehicle when traveling through a turn. It is commonly taught in emergency vehicle operations training. Currently, this concept is taught using a lecture block and a hands-on driving on an outdoor driving range. The problem is students do not get as much driving time due to the limited amount of cars, instructors, and driving ranges available. Research Questions: Can participants who receive training in a blended learning environment perform better on the driving range practical examination? Can participants who receive training with a blended and traditional learning environment transfer that knowledge when presented with a new environment? Can participants who receive training in a blended learning environment (both simulated and live driving) gain a better understanding of the principles of LOT on a cognitive test? Methods: Participants were given a one-hour lecture on the concepts of an ideal LOT. The group was divided into two. The control group went to the driving range to practice LOT techniques. The experimental group was taken to the driving simulators to practice LOT techniques. After practice, the experimental group was then taken to the driving range and allowed to practice with the other group. At the end of practice both groups were giving a driving assessment on the familiar range and a novel range. Then both groups were given a written exam. Results: The differences in driving performance and passing rate between groups were minimal, although a statistical significance was found between groups on the familiar range. Lack of training transfer was found in both groups when taken to the novel range. The blended / simulator group scored higher on the written exam. Conclusion: Use of simulators in a blended approach produced similar results compared to traditional instruction for LOT.
Assessing the Validity of Driver Response: Simulator vs. Real Vehicle
2 Views