SIPDE Process - Education in U.S. Schools - Virginia - Module Seven

Module Seven

There are eleven modules for driver education in Virginia (VDOE). Module Seven is called "Driver Performance: Personal Factors." In this Lesson, students develop an understanding of the effects of alcohol and other drugs, fatigue, and emotions on the driving task; assess the dangers of these factors; and develop strategies to make health-promoting decisions throughout their life. Below are topics expected to be discussed in Module Seven:

• Topic 1—Introduction to Alcohol – Saying No: The student will identify and analyze the legal, health, and economic consequences associated with alcohol use.
• Topic 2—Nature of Alcohol-Related Crash Problems: The student will analyze statistical data and utilize critical thinking to evaluate the nature of impaired driving crash problems.
• Topic 3—Physiological and Psychological Effects of Alcohol: The student will analyze and evaluate the physiological and psychological effects of alcohol.
• Topic 4—Effects of Alcohol and Other Drugs on the Driving Task: The student will understand the effects of alcohol and other drugs on the driving task, and assess their impact on a driver’s awareness of risk and potential for involvement in a crash.

Each Virginia module of driver education is divided and split into recommended time frames. The recommended time frame for instructors to spend on drinking and driving and the consequences of doing so is 170 minutes (2.83 hours). The module also asks for 60 minutes of parental involvement and instruction on this topic.