Research in progress

Humans and technology

• Human performance and adaptive technology

  We are investigating how advanced systems can adapt their support to people’s capabilities and changing operational demands. The project examines how information about human performance, system status and operating conditions can help identify difficulties early and provide appropriate support.

  Alongside this, we are studying how training can strengthen the competencies people need to work with these systems and manage situations when technological support reaches its limits or fails. The aim is to bring adaptive technology and human competence together, keeping people at the centre of operations.

• Pilot and instructor self-efficacy

  We are exploring how pilots’ and instructors’ self-efficacy relates to learning and performance in specific tasks. The project examines how these beliefs relate to the way pilots and instructors handle difficulties, use feedback and approach training. The research builds on findings from a large-scale survey we conducted.

Training design and EBT

• Instructional design and CBTA

  We are studying how the design of instructor training affects standardisation and the application of CBTA. The project looks at how learning objectives, lesson content, practical exercises and assessment criteria fit together. Our aim is to understand which design choices help instructors apply common standards in training and assessment.

• EBT scenario design

  We are studying how an EBT scenario generator can support training design and delivery. The aim is to create a wide range of scenarios linked to the competencies to be trained, while reducing design time and cost. The project explores how to keep scenarios varied, operationally realistic and aligned with training objectives and target competencies.

• EBT and operational performance

  We are examining how to assess the impact of Evidence-Based Training beyond the simulator. The project looks at how pilots apply what they have learned in everyday operations, and what evidence can help identify where training is effective and where changes are needed.

Assessment, standardisation and oversight

• Consistency in instructor assessment

  We are studying how instructors observe performance, assess competencies and decide on grades. The project explores why assessments differ and how shared examples, discussion and practice can improve consistency. It also considers how instructors account for the context in which performance takes place.

• Instructor concordance

  We are studying how more frequent standardisation activities can improve concordance among instructors. The project explores short exercises, shared performance examples and feedback to support agreement in competency assessment and grading. The aim is to understand which methods and frequency lead to lasting improvements.

• CBTA and regulatory oversight

  We are working with aviation authorities to support the continued development of the CBTA framework and its oversight. The project brings together research and practical experience through workshops and exchanges with flight operations inspectors. The aim is to build a shared understanding of CBTA principles and examine how they can guide the oversight of training and assessment.