Staying alert

Inattention and distraction are the second most common cause of accidents. Mobile phones in particular are a major source of distraction. The educational series aims to raise awareness among students with regard to the dangers sources of distraction can pose. It not only demonstrates how objects can serve as sources of distraction, but also shows how students themselves – e.g. as a passenger in a car – can pose a dangerous source of distraction. The sequence ends with a call for vigilance.

Part 1 : Distractions

The sequence starts with a video to introduce the second most common cause of accidents, i.e. inattention and distraction. Students are invited to discuss in detail why using their mobile phone while on the road is dangerous.

Part 2 : Selective attention test

The second part contains two attention tests to help students experience divided attention first-hand. This will demonstrate how the brain cannot process two tasks at once without an increase in reaction time and error rate.

Part 3 : Be vigilant !

The sequence ends with viewing a prevention video by the Northern Ireland Road Safety Partnership aimed at demonstrating to students that it is not just a question of protecting themselves but also refraining from distracting other road users.

Raising awareness amongst students in regard to the dangers of inattention and distraction concerning road traffic