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CFI ACS Task B Explained: The Learning Process | FOI Series Ep. 2 episode artwork

May 2, 2026 1 hr 41 min

CFI ACS Task B Explained: The Learning Process | FOI Series Ep. 2

from The VSL Aviation Podcast Hosted by Seth Lake

In Episode 2 of our CFI ACS series, we work through Area of Operation 1, Task B: The Learning Process. This is the biggest task in the Fundamentals of Instruction — 16 knowledge topics, 3 risk management elements, and 3 skills — all drawn from Chapter 3 of the Aviation Instructor's Handbook. I walk through every knowledge element, break down the concepts using real-world analogies and examples from my experience as a DPE and 20-year instructor, and then tie it all together with a realistic scenario covering all three skill elements — the kind of scenario you might get on your CFI practical test. If you're preparing for your CFI checkride, stop memorizing the FOIs. Start learning how to use them. That's what this series is about. If you haven't seen Episode 1 covering Task A (Human Behavior & Communication), go back and watch that first. Resources: Aviation Instructor's Handbook (FAA-H-8083-9), Chapter 3 VSL ACE Guide: https://vsl.aero/aceguide Join the VSL Aviation Discord: https://discord.gg/4BMChDbbxC #CFI #FlightInstructor #ACS #FOI #PilotTraining #VSLAviation #ScenarioBasedTraining #FlightTraining #DPE #checkride Chapters: 0:00 — Intro & Series Overview 2:07 — ACE Guide Walkthrough & ACS Structure 4:15 — K1: Definitions of Learning 5:01 — K2A: Behaviorism (T-37 Story) 9:02 — K2B: Cognitive Theory (Lego & Car Analogies) 17:02 — K3: Perceptions & Insight (Element of Threat) 23:28 — K4: Acquiring Knowledge (Math Analogy) 30:55 — K5: Laws of Learning 47:19 — K6: Domains of Learning (Cognitive, Affective, Psychomotor) 1:04:21 — K7: Characteristics of Learning 1:14:47 — K8: Scenario-Based Training (D&D Comparison) 1:20:01 — K9: Acquiring Skill Knowledge & Learning Plateaus 1:32:06 — K10: Types of Practice 1:37:04 — K11: Evaluation vs. Critique 1:39:20 — K12: Distractions, Interruptions, Fixation & Inattention 1:42:08 — K13: Errors 1:48:30 — K14: Memory (Penguins on an Iceberg) 1:23:57 — K15: Retention of Learning (Peppermint Story) 1:27:47 — K16: Transfer of Learning 1:31:13 — Risk Management (R1, R2, R3) 1:31:38 — Skills Scenario: The Returning Bonanza Pilot 1:40:04 — Wrap-Up

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CFI ACS Task B Explained: The Learning Process | FOI Series Ep. 2

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This episode was published on May 2, 2026.

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