Part 1

Instructional Theory

The Trainer & Learning Process

A trainer makes someone proficient through instruction and practice. Flight instructors are trainers, aiming to help students fly aircraft proficiently and safely.

This guide covers basic instructional techniques for:

• Pre-flight briefing
• In-flight instruction
• Post-flight briefing (debriefing)

People learn through their own activity, and teaching involves stimulating this activity (mental or physical).

The following seven learning factors make learning easier. They apply to you and your students.

• Readiness: Students must be mentally, physically, and emotionally ready to learn.
• Primacy: Teach it right the first time.
• Relationship: Present lessons logically (known to unknown, simple to complex, easy to difficult).
• Exercise: Engage students in meaningful activity.
• Intensity: Use dramatic, realistic, or unexpected things to aid memory.
• Effect: Ensure students feel satisfied after the lesson.
• Recency: Summarise and practice important points at the end of each lesson.