What should be a primary focus when assessing student pilot progress according to FIRC?

A primary focus when assessing student pilot progress should be on cognitive understanding and skill application. This means that instructors should evaluate not only how well students perform the physical tasks of flying but also how they understand the concepts behind those tasks. An effective flight instructor recognizes that successful flying relies on the ability to apply knowledge in real-time situations, which involves decision-making, problem-solving, and understanding the principles of flight.

Fostering both cognitive understanding and practical skills ensures that students are well-rounded pilots who can adapt to various situations and not just reproduce learned maneuvers. This holistic approach is essential in developing competent, safe, and knowledgeable pilots who can effectively integrate theory with practice during their flight training and beyond.