ABSTRACT
Flight training began with Orville and Wilbur Wright in 1910 at their flight school in Montgomery, Alabama. The operation of a sophisticated aircraft relies on the performance of a team of professionals. Differences in gender and cognitive processes result in variations of learning styles. An understanding of these differences and preferences, with appropriate consideration of learning theories, will provide for effective teaching and learning in aviation. Racial prejudice and discrimination also continue to exclude women and minorities from educational opportunities and contribute to stereotyping. Prejudice within collegiate aviation programs has resulted in wasted talents and skills of women and minorities. Barriers to the participation of African-American women in flight training include the high cost of training, absence of role models, lack of available aviation career information, and an alienating climate that makes them feel unwelcome in the industry.
