ABSTRACT
This paper presents the results of a Cognitive Task Analysis (CTA) undertaken at a major Australian airline ,during late 1997. The study was carried out as a precursor to more extensive task analysis related to methods employed under the Advanced Qualification Program (AQP). The methods adopted relied heavily on the published works of Seamster, Redding and Kaempf. Fifty-six (56) declarative knowledge concepts were isolated from Flight and Technical Training manuals, State Regulations and company standard operating procedures. These concepts were items that the pilots had to know. Sorting and rating techniques were used to analyse the structural relationships. Four groups of pilots were identified for the study; new intake First Officers, recent initial commands, senior training Captains, and check Captains. These groups essentially covered an experience range from novice to expert. The paper reviews the methodology used in analysis, isolates differences between pilot groups, and draws some conclusions about the application of the results to the design of training curricula and the presentation of written material in manuals.
