CFI ground school/self-study courses

cowman

cowman

Final Approach
PoA Supporter
Joined
Aug 12, 2012
Messages
5,894
Location
Danger Zone
Display Name
Cowman
Home Airfield
KUIN
What are the best options out there for someone wanting to actually learn all the material not just pass the test(s)?
 
Note that most of the stuff is the same as you learned for your other certificates, start with the AIM, AFM, PHAK, etc... plus the Aviation Instructors Handbook.

You have no choice but to memorize the crapola that the FAA claims as educational theory to regurgitate for the FOI. Drill and Kill with your favorite software until you get it pat, then forget it.
 
I really wish I had knocked all of this out 27 years ago, when I did my commercial checkride. The combined CFI/CSEL checkride is the way to go.
Now I sit here, trying to cram this stuff while the rest of my non-aviation life screams for my attention.
I bought the Gleim program a year ago. I glazed over while trying to do the online program.
 
cowman said:
What are the best options out there for someone wanting to actually learn all the material not just pass the test(s)?
Click to expand...
Compiling a comprehensive library is the first step. Then you need to study the material from an instructional knowledge perspective.

As an example, most pilots will tell you steep turns are 45° or more of bank. Research page 3-12 in the Airplane Flying Handbook. Level turns are divided into 3 classes. What defines the class of the turn?
 
Last edited:
So, basically what I'm hearing is don't bother with any kind of course just start reading the FAA materials? Sounds reasonable, part of the reason I'm asking is I've never really run into a self-study course that seemed all that good.
 
cowman said:
So, basically what I'm hearing is don't bother with any kind of course just start reading the FAA materials? Sounds reasonable, part of the reason I'm asking is I've never really run into a self-study course that seemed all that good.
Click to expand...
I’d suggest studying the FAA materials somewhat topically based on the applicable ACSs, if that makes sense.
 
First things first, look at the ACS to see what you’re going to be tested over. I would also suggest reading the AFH, Aviation Weather Handbook and PHAK. Once that is complete, start working on lesson plans based on what the ACS says you need to know/teach for each item. Only then find a suitable self-study system to prepare for the knowledge tests (much of which is carry over from the Commercial, tailored toward a CFI’s POV.)


Learning ‘all’ of the material will take you the rest of your life! ;)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top