Latent Hazard Anticipation in Young Drivers: Review and Meta-Analysis of Training Studies

Young drivers are overrepresented in motor vehicle crashes, and are shown to be poorer at anticipating potential threats on the roadway compared with their more experienced peers. Literature demonstrates the effectiveness of driver training programs at improving young drivers’ latent hazard anticipation performance. Various hazard anticipation training studies have been undertaken on different population demographics using different training scenario presentation modes and multiple evaluation testbeds. These error-based feedback training programs (3M) allow trainees to make a mistake, show them how to mediate the mistake, and provide an opportunity to master the target skills. The current meta-analytical review focused on 19 peer-reviewed training studies that utilized eye movements to measure improvements in drivers’ latent hazard anticipation performance following training. The role of four moderating factors (mode of delivery – PC-based or non PC-based; presentation of training – egocentric or exocentric; method of evaluation – on-road or driving simulator; and age of sample – teen novices aged 16–17 or young drivers aged 18–21) on the training effects were explored. Overall, the current meta-analysis suggest that: (a) superficial improvements in training programs does not necessarily further improve the drivers’ latent hazard anticipation; (b) drivers who completed a training program with both egocentric and exocentric training views achieved greater levels of latent hazard anticipation performance than those who completed a training program that contained either view, but not both; and (c) the effect sizes of the 3M-based training programs on latent hazard anticipation were greater for drivers aged 18–21 years than drivers aged 16–17.