FAA Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI)The Learning ProcessHard
A student pilot is struggling to understand the concept of density altitude. The instructor explains the individual factors (temperature, pressure, humidity) and how each affects aircraft performance. However, the student still cannot grasp the overall relationship or predict performance changes when multiple factors vary simultaneously. At which level of learning is the student currently operating, and what level should they strive for to fully comprehend density altitude?
- ARote, then Understanding
- BUnderstanding, then Correlation
- CUnderstanding, then Application
- DApplication, then Correlation
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Understanding, then Correlation
The student can understand individual factors, suggesting they are at the 'Understanding' level for those discrete pieces of information. However, they struggle to grasp the 'overall relationship' and 'predict performance changes when multiple factors vary simultaneously', which requires making associations and relating new knowledge to existing knowledge and experience – the 'Correlation' level of learning.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Rote is memorization; the student understands individual factors, so they are past Rote.
- C. Application is using knowledge in a new situation; prediction is beyond simple application and involves making connections.
- D. Application is using; Correlation is making broader connections, which is what's needed for overall comprehension of complex interactions.
Correlation (Level of Learning)
The highest level of learning, where a student makes associations between various learned elements and relates new knowledge to existing knowledge, experience, or situations.
- Integrates knowledge from different areas
- Allows for prediction and problem-solving
- Goes beyond understanding and application
Memory trick: R U A C: Rote, Understanding, Application, Correlation