Any IAM observers on here?

[silverfoxcc]

When i took my test back in 1999 i was advised that the 'commentary' is now optional and not compulsory

I have been advised today by an observer that the commentary is now back as part of the test.
Is this true?

[johnao]

'commentary' is still optional and not compulsory on the IAM entry test. It's compulsory on Masters.

[Nigel Worc's]

I took mine around 1999 ish (car), and it was optional then, although encouraged.

I'm not sure it has ever been compulsory.

I found during my time with them (the IAM), that a lot of observers wrote stuff into stone that shouldn't have been so, this became very obvious when I was doing the pre test check runs, later in my IAM life.

[Glosphil]

In order to obtain a 'F1rst' pass in the IAM Advanced test commentary must be demonstrated.

[johnao]

Glosphil said:

In order to obtain a 'F1rst' pass in the IAM Advanced test commentary must be demonstrated.

That sounds a bit like an urban myth propagated by a local group or a particular examiner.

I've not heard of this being official IAM policy. But, I'd be interested to hear if someone knows differently.

[R0G]

Not compulsory

Was not in 1997 and is not now

Need to make an effort for say 10/15 mins to get a F1RST

Usually invited to do it in a rural area which includes a village so its no too taxing

[johnao]

johnao said:

Glosphil said:

In order to obtain a 'F1rst' pass in the IAM Advanced test commentary must be demonstrated.

That sounds a bit like an urban myth propagated by a local group or a particular examiner.

I've not heard of this being official IAM policy. But, I'd be interested to hear if someone knows differently.

Here's the official IAM position from its website:

"The rule for a commentary drive to achieve a F1RST
There has been some inconsistency with regard to the scoring or inclusion of a commentary drive in an advanced test of F1RST standard. Here is our official clarification.
To achieve a F1RST in the advanced test the drive MUST include a commentary drive that scores 1 or 2 (and meets the overall scoring rules for a F1RST).
A commentary drive although not mandatory in an advanced test must be included in the test to acheive a F1RST. We know some of our groups do not prepare associates to deliver a commentary."

So now I know.

Edited to add: That quote was taken from the Biker's webpage. I can't imagine it's different for drivers.

Edited by johnao on Sunday 5th October 10:21

[andym1603]

It was optional in 1984 when I passed mine. It was preferred though to let the examiner know you knew everything going on about you.

[titian]

Why is a commentary helpful to you as a driver? Good driving, dare I say advanced driving, is about concentration, observation, taking in information and planning as to how you are going to cope with what is ahead. A commentary either spoken or silent is an aid to running that script over and over again during your drive.

Try it. You will be amazed how much you previously didn't see. We all here people say "suddenly" or "it just happened", once you have mastered the art of a commentary there ought never to be a situation that "suddenly...."

It begins by extending your vision to the horizon every time that horizon changes during the drive, and working back towards your bonnet, taking in all the things that you see and then making a plan as how you will position your vehicle, the speed of approach, the correct gear etc, to deal with what you see - that's the plan, it will often change as the situation develops, you change your plan accordingly, say it outloud... now, what do you see?

Edited by titian on Monday 6th October 11:52

[SVS]

johnao said:

That quote was taken from the Biker's webpage. I can't imagine it's different for drivers.

It is different for bikers. Firstly, who's going to hear your commentary as you mutter it into your helmet? Hence there's no commentary in any advanced bike test. Secondly, life's more fun on a bike

[johnao]

SVS said:

johnao said:

That quote was taken from the Biker's webpage. I can't imagine it's different for drivers.

It is different for bikers. Firstly, who's going to hear your commentary as you mutter it into your helmet? Hence there's no commentary in any advanced bike test. Secondly, life's more fun on a bike

You're quite right. Something went awry with the IAM forum page search. The official IAM comments quoted apply to drivers. They appeared in green font and I assumed incorrectly that was bikers.