Comments on: Time For a New Model?

By: John E Walz

John E Walz — Sun, 17 Feb 2013 02:17:56 +0000

I am a surgeon. Mentioned only because of the relationship to other “specialized” training.
I can only touch on some of the issues that I would like to discuss. Education is way too expensive. Specialties (medicine included) hold on to their monopoly. The computer is capable of training almost all of the necessary skills at an exponentially smaller cost than is currently used. Of course one on one will be needed. That’s true whether it is surgery or flying. Lets push the envelope of making training more accessible to all.

By: Andrew

Andrew — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 09:21:32 +0000

With all new technology, first it is used to merely do the same things that were done before with the old technology. Only later do people figure out how to use technology for things that couldn’t previously be accomplished. e.g. printers were first used as expensive typewriters. Later, they evolved into printing graphics.

Computerized training is really still in its infancy. Most people are familiar only with a computer replaying classroom lectures, which, while cheaper, is not much better. The next advancement is the animated slide show or PowerPoint. But used to their capability, computer based training could drill the pilot and embed extensive experience on situations they rarely if ever experience in real life. This could dramatically improve the quality and lower the cost of pilot training.

Transport aviation uses this approach. The military more so. But private aviation could benefit the most because of the cost impediments that leave pilots out of practice.

So far, the motion simulators seem to leave a lot to be desired. And I recognize that there is a physical sensation component to flying well. But I hope they can become better and cheaper.

I don’t have flight sim experience since I haven’t started IFR training. But I believe existing sims don’t go nearly far enough to test decision making skills of pilots in all kinds of random situations. Gaming would be a fantastic tool for this if well exploited.

Perhaps what I want is too huge for ASI to take on, but I hope you will look over this article and think about how to facilitate this kind of revolution in aviation training.

http://www.newmedia.org/game-based-learning–what-it-is-why-it-works-and-where-its-going.html

By: Kevin Crilley

Kevin Crilley — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 06:21:19 +0000

Bruce,

I’m glad someone is paying attention, its ridiculous what students like me have to do to get an aviation education. The FAA and the Airlines should be pressing for public loans and grants for good students, those that are able to pass exams and checkrides. Regional Airlines should be subsidized by the National Airlines for the safety and well being of current and future passengers. My friends have had to choose between risky assignments, constant fatigue, and slave wages for a Professional occupation in the Public Safety domain. I would have completed my training long ago for the kind of loans that exist for law and med schools…and no one suggests interns work for $12 an hour for 1-3 years or show up for work exhausted from commuting across the country etc.
This is an easy problem to solve, not everyone is cut out for a career as a pilot, reward those who achieve with loans and grants now before the demand overwhelms supply due to the pending massive number of pilot retirements…

By: Alan D. Resnicke

Alan D. Resnicke — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 22:25:34 +0000

As a former USAF helicopter instructor, middle school teacher, and now adult ed instructor, as well a ASEL pilot, I believe MOOCs have a great potential. They can be used as a standardized, consistent way of communicating basic information on a subject (for instance, weight and balance). A student could be required to complete a couple MOOCs at a time, then be required to meet with small group or 1:1 with an instructor to ensure they understand the information or to respond to questions. It’s important that the student take some personal responsibility for their learning and a series of MOOCs (like home study) will work towards that end. I’m ready!

By: Chuck

Chuck — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 19:39:58 +0000

I used to teach Aerodynamics in the US Navy’s preflight training program at NAS Pensacola, FL.

I believe that simulations and visualizations of physical phenomena would be very helpful to flight students.

Combine that with instructor-led training in a small class, and you will have a good program.

Not all students learn in the same way – an instructor can spot that and alter the teaching approach to fit the situation.

By: Bruce Landsberg

Bruce Landsberg — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 18:25:37 +0000

Rebecca…..

Absolutely. There should be instructional guidance when it makes sense to do so and there will be time when it may make better sense to use distance learning.

Thanks for your note!

By: Rebecca

Rebecca — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 15:44:17 +0000

I recently started a small ground school class with our flight school after several requests from customers. We have been using a study-at-home ground school for over 10 years, but there’s just something missing from a well-done live class. When I’m teaching in person, I can answer questions, slow down or re-phrase when I see confused looks, and gloss over some subjects when I get knowing nods. Students talk to each other about their experiences and frustrations during the breaks and at times during class. Many times I can ask leading questions rather than make statements, which forces the student to think through the “whys” for themselves, which in turn keeps them engaged.
I’m not saying MOOC’s aren’t a wonderful development and a real frustration saver for most CFI’s, but I think many flight schools would be wise to supplement them by offering small, interactive classes if they have a CFI willing and able.