There are so many facets in learning to fly. The physical act of flying is an eye/hand/muscle-memory exercise. Then there is the application of theoretical aspects to the physical aspect. Add in developing 3-D spatial awareness. Finally, there is the applied regulatory/knowledge-base aspect (chart reading, currency requirements, airspace restrictions, maintenance procedures, radio communication). My sense is that each learning style does better in one phase & struggles in another.
I am, for instance, a very good book learner. But I don’t like formal how-to coaching while hands-on in the cockpit. I prefer to figure it out on my own, within limits, with the instructor there to keep me from bending the bird. The one thing I can’t abide is a constant stream of chatter & coaching in my headset as I’m trying to link-up theory with practice.
As far as I’m concerned, headsets & intercoms are the worst invention in flight instruction in decades. They result in steam-of-consciousness instructing that impede (my) learning. On the ground or downwind are the time to critique my technique verbally.
In flight, point at the airspeed if my speed needs attention, the whiskey compass if my nose is wandering in slowflight, or bump the yoke if my angle of attack is too great. A left or right finger in my peripheral vision works when I’m not lined up with the runway. Otherwise, shut up.
But that’s just my style.
