Evaluation of a Flight Surgeon Course Syllabus Change
Abstract
In November 1983, the syllabus for the Flight Surgeon flight training program was changed from a solo flight to a formal checkride evaluation at the 14-hour level. A preliminary investigation indicated that the syllabus change might negatively affect the training program by reducing its attractiveness to potential applicants or by reducing student attitude, motivation, and performance during flight training. During 1984, all Flight Surgeon students completed an 'Incentive Factors Survey' before beginning the course. After completing the course, the instructor pilots rated each of their students on a 'Flight Training Survey'. The most important application incentives to the majority of the Flight Surgeon students were the opportunities to enhance their military careers, to receive flight training, and to study aviation medicine. The opportunity to fly solo was an important, positive incentive to 22% of the students, but 31% of the students were either indifferent to or negatively influenced by a solo flight opportunity. The remaining 47% of the students indicated that the solo flight opportunity was a modest, positive incentive. The flight training ratings indicated that student attitudes and motivation levels were not only satisfactory, but were generally above average when compared to previous Flight Surgeon students. Ratings of student performance were generally commensurate with ratings of the student's ability.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA168824
Entities
People
- Michael D. Mcanulty