Evaluating and Enhancing Driving Skills for Individuals With Intellectual Disabilities Through Simulator Training

Research consistently demonstrates that attainment of a driver’s license and access to a vehicle directly and favorably influence employment outcomes, enhance one’s ability to capitalize on quality jobs, and expand one’s access to community and independent opportunities. This study used a driving si...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Focus on autism and other developmental disabilities 2021-12, Vol.36 (4), p.191-200
Main Authors: Randall, Kristina N., Ryan, Joseph B., Stierle, Jordan N., Walters, Sharon M., Bridges, William
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
College Students
Computer Software
Driver Education
Intellectual disabilities
Intellectual Disability
Motor Vehicles
Program Effectiveness
Safety
School environment
Screening Tests
Simulation
Skill Development
Teaching Methods
Young Adults
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Summary:Research consistently demonstrates that attainment of a driver’s license and access to a vehicle directly and favorably influence employment outcomes, enhance one’s ability to capitalize on quality jobs, and expand one’s access to community and independent opportunities. This study used a driving simulator to provide driving lessons to 12 young adults with intellectual disabilities (IDs). The purpose was to use a safe learning environment to screen candidates for those who showed the potential to obtain a driver’s license. Instruction was provided using a set of interactive exercises focusing on controlling the vehicle via lane keeping, speed maintenance, and obstacle avoidance tasks. Results revealed that simulator training provided a safe learning environment to identify individuals demonstrating the potential to safely operate a motor vehicle. Participants demonstrated moderate to large gains in maintaining lane position, speed, braking response, and target detection. Implications and suggestions for future research are provided.
ISSN:1088-3576
1538-4829
DOI:10.1177/1088357620985458