Modelling and Evaluation of Driving Simulator for Driving Education in Malaysia

Driving simulator has been widely used as one of driver training tools because it provides a safe environment which does not expose drivers to hazards. However, Malaysia has yet to adopt the driving simulator in the driving course. In this paper, a cost effective and modular driving simulator prototype integrated is designed and developed based on the Malaysian Ministry of Transport’s Standardised License Test. Seven modules which correspond to five practical syllabus circuit tracks and two on-the-road theories are created using a real time development tool named “Unity” and integrated with some off-the-shelf hardware namely a steering wheel, gear shifter and pedals. The justification of the simulator is confirmed by conducting a unique experimental procedure on it participated by 26 individuals. They are divided into two groups each of which follows two different training methodology before taking part in the simulator test mode. One group is provided with only printed materials and another group is allowed to practise in the simulator. Experimental results show that the transfer of skills is far better among the participants of the group who are allowed to practise the simulator before taking part in the automated test of the simulator.