The Effects of Text Messaging on Young Novice Driver Performance Essay

Monash University (Melbourne, Victoria) conducted a study on the effects of text messaging on young novice driver performance; the results were published in February 2006 by Simon Hosking, Kristie Young, and Michael Regan. The study was sponsored by the National Roads and Motorists Association (NRMA) Motoring and Services, and NRMA insurance. This essay will cover the background to the study and accompanying information such as the research question, and the objectives. Secondly, this essay will analyse the strengths and weaknesses of the study. Lastly, the findings as a result of the research project and the subsequent conclusions will be discussed. It is estimated that about one-quarter of motor vehicle incidents are caused by the driver becoming distracted. It is expected that with the increased prevalence of mobile phones, there is potential for the number of distraction-related incidents to increase, with this in mind, young drivers need to be educated about the dangers of becoming distracted while driving. It was reported by Telstra that 30% of Australians surveyed had used their cell phone while driving and that one-in-six admit to doing it regularly (Telstra, 2003). The aim of this study was to extend the findings of previous research on the effects of receiving and sending text messages while operating a motor vehicle. The participants to the study were all aged between 18 and 21 years old, and were undergraduate students at Monash University. They were asked to take part in a practical driving test, as well as a pre-drive demographics questionnaire, a post-drive questionnaire and a subjective workload inventory. The 20 participants for the study consisted of people who were on their Probationary driver’s license; this... ...elated incidents. MUARC also suggests there should be harsher punishment to assist in deterring drivers from using hand-held cellphones while driving. The research highlighted a need for mobile phone safety awareness; the study provided strong evidence against the use of cell phones, not only for young, inexperienced drivers but for all drivers. The result of less distraction would be heightened road safety, and in turn, a safer community. Works Cited Conaway, M. (1999). Repeated Measures Design. Vanderbilt. Tennessee. Holah, M. (2009, 19 November 2009). Repeated Measures Design Retrieved 16/04, 2012, from http://www.psychexchange.co.uk/glossary/repeated-measures-design-263/ Telstra. (2003). Telsta, Police and NRMA Insurance join forces to target mobile phone use on Australian roads, Telstra News Release. Retrieved from www.telstra.com.au/newsroom