Competency-Based

Training Solutions
in a non-standardized world

APATS
September 2009

Capt. Kris Van den Bergh

Vice-President Pilot Provisioning

Problem Definition
We fly safe airplanes
We are part of an industry that has established an
expectation of safety in the traveling public.
Our airplanes are well designed.
The technology engineered into todays aircraft
substantially increases crew situational awareness and
reduces crew workload.
Training methods and supporting evaluation criteria, in
our view, are challenged to keep pace.

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Problem Definition

- 20%

FAA US Data
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Problem Definition

+ 50%

FAA US Data
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Problem Definition

+ 70%

FAA US Data
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Problem Definition
The primary response, thus far, has been to increase the
prescriptive hourly requirements, required maneuvers, and
testing processes necessary for qualification.
There have been structural improvements:

Improvements to Training Tools & Products (Technology)

Advanced Qualification Proficiency (AQP) Training

ITQI Initiatives (Instructor Training & Evidenced Based Training)

Maturing Threat and Error Management (TEM) Programs

We are still challenged to advance our training and

evaluation methods in the international aviation community.
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Competency-Based Training
One possible solution is competency based training and
assessment.
Hours
& Maneuvers

Benchmarked
Standards

Proficiency
in classic
training program

Proficiency
in proficiency-based
training program

Training
Progress

Training
Progress

Competency based training:

Places emphasis on achieving benchmarked standards of

performance throughout the training, or
Is training that focuses on what a person will do in the workplace after
completing a program of training.
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Competency-Based Training
Most modern military training is competency based.
Application to civil flight training is relatively new & limited.
Only achievable if the principles of the Instructional Systems
Design process are well understood and successfully
applied.

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Competency-Based Training
Existing prescriptive training programs confirm that a trainee
has obtained the knowledge and mastered the skills
associated with a given task by a final test or progress test.
Competency based programs, by design, mandate the
continuous assessment of KSA competencies against
benchmarked standards using a Learning Management
System and other tools to ensure the continuous maturation
of trainees as they progress through a given program of
instruction.
The question before us
is competency based training realistically achievable
in todays global aviation community?
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Competency-Based Training
Is standardization in a non-standardized world possible?
Can we develop competency based training standards that
complement and improve our current training initiatives and
priorities?

We believe it is feasible if we conform to several features

that are the basis of competency based training and
assessment.

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Competency Based Training Features

A Comprehensive Aircrew Selection Process.
Aviation English Language (AEL) Training
Competency Based Training and Assessment

Underlying instructional systems design process

Competency based training environment

Benchmarked standards of performance, focused on the end goal

Integration of theoretical and practical skills
Supporting training materials
Satisfactory completion of training is only based on the achievement of all specified
competencies

Training emphasis on the crew

LOFT/scenario based training predominates

Integrated CRM/TEM
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Competency Based Training Features

Practical and Theoretical Training

Competencies precisely defined

Cumulatively provide the theoretical and practical competencies of an
ATPL holder qualified to operate a multi-engine, turbine powered,
pressurized airplane in all possible operational environments.
Windshear, CFIT, Upset, and recovery from energy critical maneuvers
required.
CRM/TEM attitudinal competencies trained in a mission context.

FSTDs provide the fidelities necessary to train competency based

objectives.
Training providers tasked with coordinating specific regulatory
requirements with the National Authority.

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Competency Based Training Features

Instructional Competencies

Defined for each phase.

Confirmed by the supporting quality system.

Formally assessed.

Program Oversight

Confirmation of the ATOs training processes.

Confirmation of the ATOs quality system.

Review of the ATOs risk indicators previously identified in the risk

profile.

Assessment of training fidelity (courseware, instruction, FSTDs).

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Competency Based Training Features

Testing

Comprehensive assessment of developing ATPL knowledge and

skills.

PF and PNF/PM.

Evaluation standards connected to existing/future technologies.

Data Collection and Analysis

Absolutely essential to assure competency development.

ICAO data collection recommendations provide a good start.

Data collection should extend through release to the line and the first
year of operational experience to validate the training process.

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CAE Initiatives
Our Proposed MPL program and existing ATPL training
programs incorporate competency based training features.
Examples:

CASS

Standard Proficiency Objectives

Robust quality systems

Providing TOs with a set of priorities that support day-to-day operations,

augment safety initiatives, reveal latent threats to the organization, confirm
program execution and instructor proficiency, and provide long term action
items.

Comprehensive and fully integrated planning & data collection system

CAE Global Flight Operations Manual

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CAE Initiatives
Airline/Customer Coordination

Training expectations/special needs.

Traditional or AQP?
Cadet selection.
Coordination of extended data collection requirements.
Coordination with sponsoring airlines NAA inspector.

National Authority Coordination

Many ICAO recommended training standards are tasked to NAAs.

They include ATO Certification Requirements, Quality System
Requirements, and SMS requirements.

End goal is improved training fidelity that fully utilizes

advanced training methods & technologies.
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Thank You

17

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