EDI pioneers hi-tech approach to driver training

An innovative driver training tool, this special CD will be introduced as part of EDI's new driver training curriculum from 15 January 2007. The CD, which also includes driving tips, has been developed by Carillon Media (P) Ltd., an Indian company that specializes in SCORM compliant Learning Management Systems in coordination with EDI's Advanced Research Unit.

"EDI is the first driver training institute in the region to create and introduce such training CD's," said Mr Amer Ahmad Belhasa, managing director, Emirates Driving Institute (EDI). "We have already shown how technology can be used to enhance driver training with our advanced simulators. We now plan a complete revamp of our lecture program to include new topics, innovative visual aids and other driver training tools. These driver training CD's are the first step in that direction."

The newly developed driver training CD, which marks a watershed in driver training tools, has 6 different modules dealing with essential aspects of driver skills: Observing Lane Discipline - Traffic Signs, Signals and Road Markings - Intersections and Roundabouts - Signalling and Turns and Parking and a module titled Your Vehicle that explains the parts of the car and offers maintenance tips.

To ensure customer satisfaction, EDI invited a focus group of 20 trainees to evaluate the training CD's who unanimously agreed it was an exceptional training tool. "I found it very helpful," said Nasreen Khatoon, a member of the focus group. "It has definitely helped in increasing my awareness, especially about lane changing and lane discipline." Mohammad Shakeel, another member of the group agreed. "I feel much more confident about taking my driving test now" he said. The group also offered suggestions which will be included in an updated version.

"A picture is worth a thousand words," said Mr Belhasa. "Using animated graphics and images significantly enhances the learning process and makes training much more effective than lectures and books alone."

EDI has a long tradition of using learning aids to supplement regular on-the-road training. Two years back, EDI launched Arabic and English editions of The Beginners Guide to Driving in the UAE which has been a great success.