Driving Instruction – Delivering a Lesson Briefing

This article is the second in a series on delivering quality driving lessons in Nottingham.

We will take a closer look at the driving lesson briefing, where new information is presented to a learner. This can be a major stumbling block for trainees taking the part 3 exam of instructional ability.

Before the briefing begins the pupil should be greeted and settled in. Ensure that there is a thorough recap of the previous driving lesson as this will set the benchmark for the current lesson. It will reinforce any previous knowledge which will be useful in dealing with the new topic. Good use of question and answer technique will get the pupil involved and make them more receptive to new learning.

Every instructor has their own style when it comes to teaching but all essential information on rules and procedures for the topic must be included. The pupil should be actively engaged in the briefing or the new information will not be absorbed. The information must be delivered in an orderly way which builds on the pupil's previous knowledge. Simple and straightforward rules should be outlined before any variables are given. Avoid any unnecessary complexities at this stage of the lesson. These can be dealt with more effectively on the move should the situation arise.

It can be very difficult to describe driving actions or traffic situations in words so it is good practise to use a diagram when explaining things. A laminated diagram can be used with a dry wipe marker to draw out driving scenarios. When using diagrams make sure that they are held in such a way that it is clearly visible to the pupil. Presenting the information to them holds the pupil's attention and helps them to feel involved. Not everyone finds drawing a diagram easy. It may take some practise to be able to draw a clear diagram which is easily understandable. Avoid drawing too much, it is so easy to end up with a diagram which just confuses the situation rather than clarifying it. If you have finished teaching one point, wipe the diagram clean before starting another.

Start with an overview of the subject. This should tie in with the aims and objectives stated at the beginning of the lesson. After the overview is understood then go into detail. Build on any previous knowledge by recapping any basic principles and applying them to the new material. A one way lecture can be useful but learning can be greatly reinforced by use of question and answer technique. This directly involves the pupil and lets the instructor know if information is being understood, if it isn't try a different way of explaining and adapt your teaching methods to meet the needs of the pupil. Remember that communication is not about what is being said, but what is being received. Try to relate information to something very similar to help the pupil understand. Be creative and try out different ideas.

The brief should not really need to last more than five minutes with the exception of the controls lesson. A pupil may switch off if they think that there is too much talking and not enough driving happening. Give them just as much as they need to get moving and then present more when on the move. For major driving faults it may be necessary to pull up and give a mini brief, again using a diagram.

So there is an outline on how to give a brief. Keep it simple, involve the pupil and don't forget to listen to the pupil. Encourage them to ask questions about anything they don't understand, but do keep to the subject of the brief. Don't allow it to wander. My next article will look at instructional support when on the move.