FAA Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI)The Learning ProcessHard
A pilot who recently transitioned from a glass-cockpit aircraft to a steam-gauge aircraft finds it difficult to recall power settings for the older aircraft because the newly learned glass-cockpit procedures keep coming to mind instead. This difficulty is best explained by which theory of forgetting?
- AInterference theory
- BDisuse theory
- CLaw of primacy
- DRepression theory
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Interference theory
Interference theory holds that forgetting occurs because newer or competing information interferes with the retrieval of previously learned information. In this case, the recently learned glass-cockpit procedures are interfering with recall of the older steam-gauge power settings.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Disuse theory attributes forgetting to lack of use over time, not competition with newer learning.
- C. The law of primacy concerns the strength of first impressions, not a theory of forgetting.
- D. Repression theory involves forgetting due to unconscious suppression of unpleasant memories, not competing skills.
Interference Theory (Forgetting)
A theory of forgetting stating that memories can be blocked or altered by other information learned either before or after, causing competition during recall.
- One of three main theories of forgetting: disuse, interference, repression
- New learning can interfere with recall of old learning (retroactive interference)
- Old learning can also interfere with new learning (proactive interference)
Memory trick: Interference = new information blocking the road to old memories