FAA Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI)The Learning ProcessMedium
A student who already knows how to fly a Cessna 172 finds it noticeably easier to check out in a Piper Cherokee because many procedures, checklists, and instrument arrangements are similar between the two aircraft. This ease of transition best illustrates which concept?
- ANegative transfer
- BZero transfer
- CPositive transfer
- DRote transfer
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Positive transfer
Positive transfer occurs when previously learned material helps a student learn new material more easily. Because the similarities between aircraft aid the checkout process, this is a clear example of positive transfer of learning.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Negative transfer would occur if prior learning interfered with or hindered learning the new aircraft.
- B. Zero transfer would mean prior learning had no effect at all, which contradicts the scenario.
- D. Rote transfer is not a recognized category of transfer of learning.
Positive Transfer of Learning
Occurs when skills or knowledge learned in one context facilitate learning in a new, related context.
- Contrasted with negative transfer (interference) and zero transfer (no effect)
- Common in transitioning between similar aircraft
- Instructors design curricula to maximize positive transfer
Memory trick: Old skills can help (positive), hurt (negative), or do nothing (zero) for new learning