FAA Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI)The Learning ProcessMedium
An experienced CFI is conducting a flight review for a pilot who has not flown in 18 months. During the review, the pilot demonstrates excellent proficiency in basic maneuvers but struggles with radio communications, often forgetting standard phraseology and call signs. This difficulty is most likely due to which memory phenomenon?
- AProactive Inhibition
- BTheory of Disuse
- CRetroactive Inhibition
- DRepression
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Theory of Disuse
The pilot's inability to recall standard phraseology after a long period of not flying points directly to the Theory of Disuse. This theory suggests that information in long-term memory that is not frequently accessed or rehearsed tends to fade or become harder to retrieve over time.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Proactive inhibition occurs when old learning interferes with the recall of new learning.
- C. Retroactive inhibition occurs when new learning interferes with the recall of old learning.
- D. Repression is a defense mechanism, not a memory phenomenon of forgetting due to lack of use.
Theory of Disuse (Forgetting)
The Theory of Disuse suggests that forgetting occurs because memories, especially those in long-term memory, weaken or fade over time if they are not regularly accessed or rehearsed.
- Also known as decay theory.
- Applies primarily to long-term memory.
- Emphasizes the role of lack of practice or retrieval in forgetting.
Memory trick: Don't Disuse your memory, or new things will Retroactively Proactively inhibit!