What Do Novice Drivers Need to Know Today? Revision of the Research Foundation -- the GDE Matrix

The article addresses the research foundation for driver education and the Goals for Driver Education (commonly referred to as the GDE matrix). The matrix was introduced as part of the EU-funded research project GADGET and was first published internationally in 2002. Since then, it has served as a foundation for driver education in many countries, both within and beyond Europe. Over the past 25 years, the situation and context for young people have changed significantly. Research has shown that today's youth experience different upbringing conditions and social contexts, leading to thinking and behaviour patterns distinct from those of previous generations. Based on this, I argue that it is time to revise the GDE matrix in relation to recent research and our current understanding of young people. Recent studies indicate that today's youth exhibit lower levels of risk-taking behaviour, a heightened sense of responsibility, and greater awareness regarding value-based decision-making. Through a review of the GDE matrix, alongside research and insights about contemporary youth, I outline an expansion of the GDE matrix to include content that reinforces the positive and desirable attitudes, values, and life perspectives they bring with them. I have chosen to term these "growth-increasing factors." This proposed update provides a renewed foundation for driver education and constitutes a contribution to ongoing efforts in traffic safety.

Keywords: Driver education, GDE matrix, Emerging adulthood, Growth increasing factors, Traffic safety, Wicked competences.