FAA Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI)Human Behavior and Effective CommunicationEasy
A student pilot who has already mastered flying an aircraft with a control yoke transitions to a new trainer that also uses a similar yoke arrangement and control feel. She adapts to the new aircraft almost immediately with no confusion. This is an example of what?
- ARote-level learning
- BPositive transfer of learning
- CNegative transfer of learning
- DRegression to an earlier skill level
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Positive transfer of learning
Positive transfer occurs when previously learned skills or knowledge help a person learn a new but related task more easily. Because the control feel and layout were similar, her prior training helped rather than hindered the new learning.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Rote learning is mere memorization without understanding, not described in this scenario.
- C. Negative transfer occurs when old habits interfere with new learning, not help it.
- D. Regression refers to reverting to childish or earlier behavior under stress, unrelated here.
Positive Transfer of Learning
When skills or knowledge learned in one situation help (rather than hinder) learning in a new, related situation.
- Occurs when tasks share similar elements or principles
- Instructors design lessons to maximize positive transfer
- Contrasts with negative transfer, which hinders new learning
Memory trick: 'Positive Pushes You Forward' — old skills boost the new one.