Principles & Method of Instruction
Principles and Methods of Instruction (PMI) is a compulsory component of any Flight Instructor Rating Course. Although it is mandatory knowledge, it still tends to be an element that requires much work and gains the most comment in future assessments of instructors. As most instructors prefer to do what they do best – fly aircraft, the methods of instruction and the various techniques do not get the attention that it really requires or deserves.
We all know that teaching is not always a natural talent but comes about through long term skill development and concepts. Although previously seen as a have to or necessary evil by many training organisations, instructors, check and training and line training captains, not to forget their decision making management, modern operators are quick to realise the advantages of the revised and innovative format now provided. Even if not in a dedicated instructional role, we all benefit from these highly prized skills. Various courses tailored to the operator’s specific requirements and operations are available at our facilities or your own training rooms.
Our PMI Courses include all requirements as set down by CASA for flight instruction rating qualifications and as such, many training organisations have found it the ideal opportunity to utilize our services whilst maintaining their focus on the practical instruction. Close relationships are drawn from current CRM principles and issues which are interwoven into the course.
Course Modules
Modules covered in the Principles and Methods of Instruction course include:
- Principles of Learning
Learning is defined as “a change in behavior as a result of experience”. We examine how we, as facilitators and instructors, can develop the learning styles of our students to enhance their learning experience. Adult learning concepts are discussed in conjunction with various styles and theories of learning. - Psychological Issues
Although not trained psychologists, we must understand how we function and interact as humans to better enhance both our own teaching styles and the learning behaviors of our students. Here we not only examine our own abilities and needs as humans, but also the influence of stress and fatigue in the training environment. - Teaching Methods
Constantly changing with time, we keep up to date with the most modern and practical methods of instruction. This module not only encompasses teaching methods and leadership styles but class participation and active learning by all participants in the practical applications of these methods. Practical exercises in effective communication complete this module. - Teaching Aids
We may not be active in the decisions made regarding the types of aids available, so we must therefore be conversant with all the teaching aids, their advantages, disadvantages and ideal uses. “Tricks of the trade” are also covered where our experienced facilitators share some of their time proven training aid hints and suggestions.
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The Critique
Usually one of the most poorly conducted but most used technique in training. Not only do we examine the aspects of the trainer as a critic but also the critique process itself. Again class participation is the prime focus of this module. - Culture
Our culture is how we do things around here. Our national culture, organisational culture and personal culture influence training every day. Most often these effects go unnoticed and as such can automatically adjust and prejudice our teaching. Although no one culture is perfect in every way, we examine in this module the tools to enhance the benefits of each culture in the training environment. - Situational Awareness
A vital practical application of current CRM issues is introduced and discussed from the perspective of various training situations. Not only must we maintain our own situational awareness but that of our student becomes our responsibility and teaching them the skills to achieve their situational awareness also falls into our hands. Here we will look at some practical tips and hints to assist with this process. - Decision Making
A day to day task, but one which must be addressed and assessed as it impacts our training environments. How do we include our students in this process? When is it appropriate? And what happens when we have to make a decision during training without their involvement? All these questions and more are addressed in this module. - Teamwork in Training
All too often we forget that our teaching environments involve large teams of people. How we achieve benefit from these members and apply this knowledge is discussed with actual examples for enhancement. - Documentation
As instructors and facilitators we must follow guidelines, syllabi, competency standards and company policy. In order to do this effectively we must understand their implications on the course and each lesson. We may also need to play an active role in the development of these documents. Here we discuss these formats in detail. - Instruction
As professionals we have responsibilities towards ourselves, our companies and our students. What is expected from us? How do we achieve this in an efficient and professional manner? How do we select the best instructors from our current staff and from those who wish to apply? These matters are all discussed in open format with our facilitators.
Company Specific Training
We have tailored this course to suit many companies. These include General Aviation and Helicopter companies, Check and Training Organisations along with non aviation clientele. A meeting prior to the course will be arranged to discuss your individual requirements, or they can be emailed to our office for inclusion on the Power Point presentation and amendments to the course booklet.
Participant presentation of actual lessons is part of the training. These sessions are conducted as part of the one week course and are re-played to the participants for self critique.
Confucius once said:
“When the student is ready, the teacher will emerge!”
Tutorial Course
Single Day Format
All the relevant topics are covered in a time frame that relieves the pressure of removing staff from duty for an extended period of time. This is the ideal ‘refresher’ or ‘introduction’ training for any organisation. Please contact one of our team to discuss further.
Two Day Format
The content is the same as the single day course. However, all topics are covered in greater detail. More time is allocated to interaction and a more hands-on approach is afforded to problem solving in the appropriate modules. This our recommended format for most training if time available.
Five Day Format
The content remains the same however; this course is designed for those in management who will take responsibility for the ongoing training within the organisation and also those who will conduct in-house refresher training for their own organisations. These courses are only conducted on a demand basis and are critically analysed prior to each course to ensure it meets the ongoing demands of the organisation participating.
All courses include the following, regardless of duration:
- All course materials and activities;
- Comprehensive full colour workbook;
- Morning tea, afternoon tea and lunch are provided as part of the day;
- Certificate of completion.
Please contact Civil Aviation Academy Australasia to discuss the availability and pricing of this course for your company.
Please note company specific training is also available and costs may vary. Contact us for more details.
