Geared to Go A Workbook for Coaching New Drivers

Communication tipsCommunicating clearly with a new driver is important. These tips may help.Keep focusedLearning to drive requires focus and concentration. Save conversation not related to driving for later.Keep calmWhen you are talking to the learner, be clear and calm. This may not always be easy. It helps to choosesafe, low-traffic driving routes and to give well-timed instructions. Remember, a new driver will need moretime to think and react than an experienced driver.Be positiveA new driver needs reassurance about making progress. Avoid criticism and use positive comments. Try toend each practice session on a positive note. Helpful sentences like "That turn was good. Next time youcould try . . . ." or "What did you like about the way you . . .?" help focus the learner’s mind on possibleimprovements.Give clear feedbackThe best-trained driver is one who understands what to do and why. You can encourage this type ofunderstanding by providing detailed feedback right away. For example, "I like the way you looked in alldirections before you made that turn. It would have been really easy to cut off that bike coming up besideyou," creates a logical reason in the learner’s mind for a required behaviour.Coach’s TipWhen you give feedback, always have the learner pull over to the side of the road. At the end ofeach session, discuss the driving skills that have improved and areas that require work. It’s a goodidea to draw diagrams to explain important points. Keep a written note of areas needing morepractice as a reminder for the start of the next session.Be careful with the word ‘right’Be careful not to say ‘right’ when you really mean ‘okay’ or ‘yes.’ This can avoid confusion and sudden,unplanned right turns.Use hand gestures for pointing out directionsMany people find right and left directions confusing, especially when they also have to deal with traffic.6