Modes of Aviation English training

Developments in online training and changes in perspectives

Over the last 2 years, many Aviation English training programmes have adapted their curriculum and content for online delivery, and embraced Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) and e-Learning.

As the industry continues its recovery from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, what have we learned and what are our priorities now? How have Aviation English learners’ and trainers’ roles and attitudes changed? Have modes of English Language Proficiency (ELP) and communications training been altered permanently? What forms will online and classroom-based training take in the future?

These four discussion and workshop sessions were led by ICAEA and expert guest facilitators.

GLOBAL SURVEY

The effectiveness of ATC-pilot radio communication around the world

ICAEA is conducting an ongoing global survey of international pilots and air traffic controllers, to identify how effective radio communication is in different countries. The Association aims to use the results to report on emerging issues and possible ways to address them. The findings will also help to show how effectively the ICAO Language Proficiency Requirements (LPRs) have been implemented in different countries.

The survey aims to answer these questions:

1. How effective is radio communication in different regions of the world?
2. Are there regions which would benefit from improving communication over the radio?
3. What are the main factors that cause ineffective radio communication?
4. How does ineffective radio communication affect operations?

The survey contains 10-12 questions and takes about 5-10 minutes to complete.

Participation is anonymous.

Are you a pilot or air traffic controller?

TAKE THE SURVEY

GUIDELINES

ICAEA’s Test Design Guidelines establish eight criteria for the design and recognition of valid and effective ICAO LPR tests. The TDGs explain the critical features that are necessary for the alignment of a test with the objectives of the LPRs and best practice in the specific-purpose language assessment of pilots and ATCOs.

The TDGs were produced in response to issues that have emerged since the introduction of the LPRs:

• to guide interpretation and application of ICAO Document 9835 (2010),
• to provide a common framework to analyse, evaluate and select LPR tests,
• thereby promote more uniform implementation of the ICAO LPR standards and foster greater confidence in testing systems, and,
• to recognise the effects that testing practice can have on test takers and training.

GO   TDG Video Intro & Objectives

GO   ICAO LPR Test Design Guidelines

WORKSHOPS

In 2019, ICAEA offered 4 practical workshops in Europe, Asia-Pacific and South America to introduce the TDGs to CAA LPR Focal Points, Airlines & ANSPs, Test Service Providers and other stakeholders.

Supported regionally by ICAO, over 200 participants attended these events which provided opportunities for hands-on familiarisation and discussion of the Guidelines, and the sharing of experience.

GO   TDG Workshops 2019

GO   TDG Handbook & Presentations

The ICAEA Webinar Series began in 2020 in response to the emergence of Covid-19.

As many training and testing activities needed to transition quickly from face-to-face to online delivery, the initial objective was to offer opportunities for the sharing of ideas and experience. Interactive discussions sessions were led by ICAEA Board and Research Group Members, and training and assessment professionals.

The series has continued to explore other topics including corpus linguistics and the various factors influencing pilot-controller communications. Panel members have included pilots, air traffic controllers and experts in linguistics.