Section 94.5. Curriculum

(a) The AHSS curriculum must consist of a minimum of 12 1/2 hours of instruction and include the following core components:

(1) Component one. Component one must introduce the course content, rules, regulations and requirements for successful completion. Administration of the knowledge inventory and an overview of the Commonwealth’s health/legal approach to implementation of an AHSCS shall be presented. The instructional objectives must include:

(i) Providing an understanding of the purpose of the AHSS.

(ii) Explaining the rules, regulations and expectations to the participants for successful completion of the program, as well as the consequences of failure to comply with the rules.

(iii) Creating a classroom environment that fosters active participation and appropriate structure.

(iv) Providing an understanding of the Pennsylvania AHSCS.

(v) Explaining the role of AHSS as a part of the AHSCS.

(vi) Examining Pennsylvania laws regarding DUI.

(vii) Establishing the relationship between driving after drinking alcohol or using drugs, and automobile crashes.

(viii) Providing, in accordance with § 94.9 (relating to notification of possible fine and imprisonment), oral and written notice of the provisions of 75 Pa.C.S. § 1543(b) (relating to driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked)

(2) Component two. Component two must address basic drug and alcohol information. How drugs and alcohol affect the human body should be presented in an uncomplicated manner. Information about alcohol and drugs that are more frequently combined with driving shall be emphasized during this component. The instructional objectives must include:

(i) Understanding the physiological process of drug and alcohol absorption, metabolism and elimination.

(ii) Examination of the effects of drugs and alcohol on the central nervous system, judgment, muscular control and vision.

(iii) Explanation of behavioral changes associated with the consumption of alcohol and various drugs.

(iv) Description of tests for determining the presence of alcohol and drugs in the human body.

(3) Component three. The instructional objectives for this component must include:

(i) Examination of how alcohol and drug use affects driving skills.

(ii) Recognition that a DUI arrest may be a warning sign of a substance abuse problem.

(iii) Understanding the characteristics of alcohol and drug abuse and addiction.

(4) Component four. The instructional objectives for this component must include:

(i) Recognition of the impact of a DUI arrest on family, employment and friends.

(ii) Understanding the disruption that alcohol and drug abuse has on one’s lifestyle.

(iii) Recognition of the value of family as a support system.

(iv) Identification of local drug and alcohol counseling and treatment services.

(v) Recognition of the importance of alcohol and drug abstinence for some individuals.

(5) Component five. The instructional objectives for this component must include:

(i) Identification of realistic steps to prevent a future DUI.

(ii) Measurement of any knowledge gained or attitudinal changes among participants since the inception of the class.

(iii) Reinforcement of the purpose, availability and locale of treatment and counseling services.

(iv) Provision of an opportunity to evaluate the AHSS and the instructor.

Notation

Cross References

This section cited in 67 Pa. Code § 94.7 (relating to conduct of courses); and 67 Pa. Code § 94.10 (relating to AHSS instructor qualification, selection, certification and recertification).