Equality in the driving test: a mixed methods exploration of gender differences in driving test performance
Men and women differ in their levels of performance in Great Britain practical and theory driving tests. Women reliably outperform men on the theory test, while the opposite is true in the practical test; this pattern of findings has been true for as long as data have been available.
Such a clear difference in test performance on both the theory and practical elements does not appear to be compatible with the intended outcomes of the test being related to preparedness to drive safely. Given that the practical test is the stage in the licensing process that grants access to driving, the 'male advantage' is especially concerning, since men are over-represented in road collisions, relative to women, the opposite of what would be predicted based on test performance.
This project, funded by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, used mixed methods to try and understand the potential reasons for these relative differences in test performance; it also looked at other sources of inequality (for example disabilities) although this presentation will focus on the gender data. Data held by DVSA on test performance was analysed, and interviews were undertaken with learner and new drivers, driving examiners, and driving instructors. The findings point to several potential 'routes' through which general and driving-specific differences in the experiences of men and women may lead to different test outcomes. Several potential system improvements are offered for consideration.
Dr Simon Christmas, Simon Christmas Ltd
Dr Simon Christmas is a mixed-methods researcher working across transport, environment and health, with an interest in better understanding behaviour. His work for clients in multiple sectors explores how other people experience, make sense of and find value in the world. His work is always focused on a need to understand the perspective of others – citizens, customers, colleagues, service-users or stakeholders.
Simon’s task is to help clients make better decisions by showing them the world from another standpoint. He is a Chartered Psychologist and a Full Member of the Market Research Society.
Dr Shaun Helman, Chief Scientist, TRL
Dr Shaun Helman is a cognitive psychologist who has been involved in researching road safety and driver behaviour for more than 15 years.
He is particularly interested in the links between driver behaviour and safety outcomes such as collisions and injuries, and in high-risk groups such as young and novice drivers, those driving for work, and motorcyclists.