Command and Control of the Mobile Classroom

1. Module 5 Command and Control of the Mobile Classroom

2. Purpose of the Module • To help you understand: • the proper instructor seating position, • when and how to take control of the vehicle during in-vehicle instruction, • how to utilize dual-brakes, and • what to do in an emergency or collision. PW page 5-2

3. Module Sections This module will cover three topics: • Managing and taking control of the vehicle • Utilizing equipment in the vehicle • What to do in case of collisions. PW page 5-2

4. Module Objectives • By the end of this Module, you will be able to: • Demonstrate the proper instructor seating position. • Demonstrate when and how to manage and take control of the vehicle. • Demonstrate how to utilize dual-brakes. • Explain what to do in an emergency or collision. PW page 5-2

5. The Importance of Instructor Seating Position • Relaxed position but alert. • Left hand in position of immediate access to the steering wheel. • Foot positioned ready to use the dual brake. PW page 5-3

6. Activity #1: Demonstrating Proper Seating Position Demonstrate using chairs or in the vehicle the proper seating position to the instructor candidates. PW page 5-3

7. Ways of Managing and Controlling the Vehicle • Use of verbal commands. • Use of controls during the first lesson. • Dual brake use • Steering assistance if needed • Gear selector lever PW page 5-4

8. Ways of Managing and Controlling the Vehicle • Use of the steering wheel. • Left hand should be in a position of immediate access. • Adjust the steering wheel if the situation presents a threat. PW page 5-4

9. Ways of Managing and Controlling the Vehicle • Using the dual instructors brake. • Do not let it become a student’s crutch. • Firm pressure with ball of foot. • Use when a situation may become a threat to you or other roadway users. PW page 5-4

10. Ways of Managing and Controlling the Vehicle • Using the gear selector lever. • Left hand in position to reach gear selector lever. • Shift to “neutral” in situations where engine is over revving or acceleration is more than braking power. PW page 5-4

11. Ways of Managing and Controlling the Vehicle • Using the center-pull parking brake. • Can be used as a back-up to instructor brake. • Should limit its use due to possible rear-wheel lock-up. • Thumb should depress button when using. PW page 5-4

12. Recognizing and Taking Appropriate Action When Drivers Cannot Perform • You can tell when a student is not understanding the lesson if the student: • Seems confused or frustrated • Is asking a lot of questions • Doesn’t feel comfortable performing a maneuver PW page 5-5

13. Recognizing and Taking Appropriate Action When Drivers Cannot Perform • What to do when a student is not understanding the tasks: • Explain the material in a different manner. • Break down the steps to the procedure. • Take over control for part of the maneuver such as braking and see if that helps. • Go back to a simpler maneuver or less complex maneuver and review. PW page 5-5

14. Student Issues • Nervousness • Take each step slowly and clearly • When you introduce a new topic or skills many students will freeze up or become overloaded • Back up and review, go back to basics PW page 5-6

15. Student Issues • Crying • Result of frustration • Try not to push too far • Know it all • Ask a lot of questions PW page 5-6

16. Student Issues • Lack of confidence • Focus on what the student does well in the beginning • As they gain skill you can critique their skills or challenge them more PW page 5-6

17. Student Issues • Doesn’t listen or follow directions • Maintain safety at all times • Do not yell at the student • May have to use dual instructor brake if student continues (i.e. speed) • When possible talk to parents regarding student behavior PW page 5-6

18. How to Use a Dual Brake During in-vehicle Instruction • Properly installed and operates smoothly. • Practice applying the brake while the vehicle is operated at varying speeds. • Should only be used to control the driving situation. • Verbal commands should be used first. • When necessary use the dual brake. PW page 5-7

19. How to Use a Dual Brake During in-vehicle Instruction • Do not place your foot over or on the dual control brake. • Maintain an instructional position in the car. • Should be rarely used as it will cause the student to become dependent on it. PW page 5-7

20. What to Do in an Emergency or Collision Follow procedures of your program. Example procedures may include: • Stop immediately. • Protect and control the scene. • Aid the injured (if qualified, otherwise call for help) • Record witnesses’ names and addresses • If necessary, call 911or proper authorities. • Exchange information/reporting PW page 5-8

21. What to Do in an Emergency or Collision Take these additional steps after a collision: • Make a sketch of the collision scene • Take a photograph • Record such facts as time, date, location, weather and driving conditions • Note the name of the hospital to which any injured persons were taken PW page 5-8

22. What to Do in an Emergency or Collision • Note the name and the identification number of the police officer at the collision scene • Notify the program manager and follow procedures by your program administrator. • Follow jurisdictional requirements for emergencies. PW page 5-8

23. What to Do in an Emergency or Collision • Give police the facts. • Provide honest, accurate facts and never argue about who was to blame. • Do not admit fault. • Stay at the scene until all information has been recorded. • Produce proof of financial responsibility. • Notify appropriate insurance agent promptly. PW page 5-8

24. BTW Activity Behind-the-Wheel Activity Take this section with you to the vehicle when conducting the behind-the-wheel activity. PW page 5-9

25. Activity Purpose • The purpose of the behind-the-wheel activity is to give you practice in a parking lot and on the road managing and taking control of the vehicle. PW page 5-9

26. Activity Objectives By the end of this activity, you will demonstrate how to: • Use proper instructor seating and hand positions. • Use verbal commands to maintain control. • Take physical control of the vehicle. PW page 5-9

27. Specific Activities The following activities should be completed in the vehicle: • Proper instructor seating and hand position. • How to manage risks during BTW instruction. • How to anticipate student errors and use verbal commands to take and maintain control of the vehicle. • How to take physical control of the vehicle. PW page 5-9

28. Specific Activities Practice these techniques during: • backing, • parking lot driving, • turns, • lane changes, • residential driving and • roadway driving under 45 mph. PW page 5-9

29. Materials Needed • Clipboard • Pens / pencils • Sample driving route(s) • Sample lesson plan(s) • The Behind-the-Wheel Activity page from your participant workbook PW page 5-9

30. Module Summary • With the conclusion of this Module, you should be able to: • Demonstrate the proper instructor seating position. • Demonstrate when and how to manage and take control of the vehicle. • Demonstrate how to utilize dual-brakes. • Explain what to do in an emergency or collision. PW page 5-10

31. Module Review Activity: Key Words Matchup Complete the Activity in the Participant Workbook. PW page 5-11

32. Questions and Answers • Describe ways that the instructor can take control of the vehicle. • Describe how to use instructor mirrors during in-vehicle instruction.

33. Questions? ?