You will need to ask questions to pass your part 3 test of driving instructional ability

Questions provide a way of confirming the learner’s knowledge of driving theory, skills, procedures and their current understanding of road procedures.They can be used to establish prior knowledge (recap) and to help focus attention when introducing or developing their driving skills. Questions can be used to create interest in a subject, and allow the instructor to gauge the depth of knowledge that the learner has.  


Questions keep the driver actively involved in the lesson. Learners learn best when they are involved. Learners should learn to think for themselves and be encouraged to find solutions to problems themselves. 


Avoid irrelevant and trick questions, ask questions that your learner has a reasonable chance of answering correctly. Avoid statements that require the learner to fill in the missing part, as this also requires little thought on behalf of the learner. When learners are slow to respond to questions, there is an increase in pressure to answer the question yourself. Do not be tempted to put words in the driver’s mouth, unless absolutely necessary. Silence gives people time to think and active listening skill are really important.


By thinking for themselves and finding their own answers to the questions, drivers tend to remember more than by simply being told, let your learner explain to you how something is done, this can prove to be a very successful way of instructing. 


Questions that you need to ask should be open-ended, these are questions that often have more than one correct answer, for example, “Tell me what you are looking for when you check your blind spots?”. You can ask reasoning type questions, e.g. “Tell me why it is important to reduce your speed when passing a line of parked vehicles?”  

There are also observation type questions, which require the learner to comment on a demonstration or practice session, e.g. “What happens if you do not release the brake prior to stopping?” 


Closed questions can be helpful on the move and you can use these questions to check how much factual knowledge about a subject they might have.

'The key to asking effective questions is active listening.'

If you want to become a successful driving instructor then contact us now and we will help you achieve your end goal. We have partnered with Adindito bring you everything you need to become a successful driving instructor along with a comprehensive package of training and support once you have passed. You will not be alone if you use the Tri-Coaching team. Call us now on 0800 058 8009.