Speaking: Automatic Safety Devices

In your opinion, what is the most useful automatic safety system that comes with modern cars? And conversely, what is the less useful (and perhaps even dangerous) automatic safety system that comes with modern cars? Do you agree with Tom when he said that these systems encourage drivers to drive more dangerously because they think the car is completely safe?

Now work in pairs. You can either meet one of your fellow students in person or use a type of videoconferencing software. Both of you choose one of the following roles:

A:

Your job is to design automatic safety devices (such as anti-lock braking devices and air bags). Your view is that everything possible should be done to protect drivers, passengers and other road users by developing automatic safety devices in cars.

B:

Your job is to advise car manufacturers on driver behaviour in safety matters (similar to Tom's job in audio 14 and 15). Your view is that too many automatic safety devices in a car take away the driver's responsibility. They make the driver feel too safe and protected, which is dangerous. You prefer feedback systems which warn the driver about dangers.

After choosing your part, role-play a dialogue between Person A and Person B. You should do your best defending your opinion, providing some good evidence. Record yourself (by using a videoconferencing tool or a simple recorder that comes with your mobile phone). Your recording should not be longer than three minutes, so that you can upload it to the Moodle portlet.