Series 5-2: Know Your Passengers

The “Know Your Passengers” section of the Alberta School Bus Knowledge Test focuses on a driver’s responsibility to understand and care for the students they transport.

Alberta School Bus Test - SERIES 5-2: Know Your Passengers

1 / 7

Why is it important for a school bus operator to “know your passengers”?

It lets the operator avoid talking to passengers

It reduces the need for regular vehicle inspections

It helps the operator understand their needs and provide safe, competent service

It allows the operator to shorten the route

2 / 7

What is the best way for an operator to learn how to assist a passenger?

Ask the passenger how you can best assist them

Guess based on what other passengers needed

Wait for the passenger to complain

Read their medical records without asking

3 / 7

How should operators handle uncertainty about a passenger’s needs?

Decide based only on what is most convenient for the operator

Assume the passenger will speak up if there’s a problem

Keep asking the passenger polite, respectful questions until you get it right

Stop asking after the first attempt

4 / 7

What should operators understand about a passenger’s disability?

That all disabilities affect everyone in the same way

How to diagnose new disabilities

The characteristics of the disability and how it can affect the person

Only the medical name of the disability

5 / 7

What should an operator do before providing assistance to a passenger?

Act quickly without explanation

Ask another passenger to decide

Inform the passenger of your actions and check if it is the best approach

Only assist if ordered by a supervisor

6 / 7

How can knowing a passenger’s disability affect the operator’s work?

It influences driving, needed assistance, and safety measures

It only changes where the bus stops

It has no effect on how the bus is operated

It affects only what radio station is played

7 / 7

Which question should operators NOT ask a passenger?

“How can I best assist you?”

“What is wrong with you?”

“Would you like assistance getting on or off the bus?”

“Is it okay if I help you this way?”

Your score is

This section covers recognizing individual needs, building positive relationships, and maintaining a safe, respectful environment on the bus. Drivers are expected to be aware of students’ unique personalities, medical conditions, and behavioral considerations. The section also emphasizes the importance of communication with both students and guardians, as well as quickly identifying any unusual or concerning behavior. Mastery of this knowledge ensures that drivers can provide a safe, supportive, and inclusive experience for all passengers.