FAA Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI)The Learning ProcessEasy
A ground instructor notices that students learn a new avionics procedure much faster when the instructor immediately confirms correct steps with 'that's right' and gently corrects wrong steps right away, rather than waiting until the end of the lesson to give feedback. Which law of learning best explains why immediate confirmation speeds acquisition?
- ALaw of Primacy
- BLaw of Intensity
- CLaw of Readiness
- DLaw of Effect
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Law of Effect
The Law of Effect states that learning is strengthened when accompanied by a pleasant or satisfying feeling and weakened when accompanied by an unpleasant feeling; immediate positive feedback satisfies this law and reinforces correct behavior.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Primacy concerns the strength of first learning, not feedback confirmation.
- B. Intensity relates to vivid or dramatic experiences, not feedback timing.
- C. Readiness concerns whether the student is prepared to learn, not feedback.
Law of Effect
A response accompanied by a satisfying feeling is more likely to be repeated; one accompanied by an unpleasant feeling is less likely to recur.
- Coined by Thorndike
- Positive reinforcement strengthens learning
- Punishment/dissatisfaction weakens learning
Memory trick: REEPIR: Readiness, Effect, Exercise, Primacy, Intensity, Recency