The Ecological Dynamics Model (EDM): A New Approach

Discover a Fresh Perspective on Learning to Fly

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Flight training is about more than mastering manoeuvres—it’s about equipping pilots with the skills to adapt, think critically, and stay safe in a dynamic environment.

 

At Flight Envelope, we’ve embraced the ecological dynamics model to revolutionise how we approach flight instruction. This cutting-edge framework goes beyond traditional methods, focusing on the intricate relationship between a pilot and their environment.

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Why Ecological Dynamics?

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For decades, flight training has often followed a rigid, one-size-fits-all curriculum. While effective in some areas, this approach can miss the nuances of real-world flying. Ecological dynamics bridges this gap, offering a holistic way to develop skills that are:

• Adaptable: Pilots learn to respond intuitively to changing environments.

• Practical: Training reflects real-world scenarios, not just textbook exercises.

• Safe: By fostering better decision-making and situational awareness, the model reduces the risk of loss-of-control accidents.

 

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From Principles to Practice

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Inspired by aviation expert Rich Stowell’s Nine Principles of Light Airplane Flying, we integrate ecological dynamics to enhance foundational stick-and-rudder skills. For example:

• Mechanics: Understanding the physical relationship between the pilot's inputs and the aircraft’s responses.

• Mindset: Cultivating risk management and confidence in complex situations.

• Motion: Developing a natural sense for how the aircraft interacts with its environment.

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A Personal Story - Kristy How

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When I first encountered the ecological dynamics model, it felt like finding the missing piece of a puzzle. As both a teacher and a pilot, I had often observed a frustrating disconnect between theoretical knowledge and practical application. This model brought clarity—it revealed why some students thrived while others struggled and offered tools to bridge the gap.

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One moment that stands out was attending a conference on flight training, where I sat in a small workshop with a group of highly experienced instructors. Collectively, they represented thousands of flight hours. When asked what they wished their students understood, their responses were strikingly consistent. They spoke about students’ inability to grasp the implications of their actions—whether it was skipping over study materials, failing to perform checks properly, or neglecting to use sufficient rudder.

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It became clear to me that both students and instructors were missing a shared roadmap. Students wanted to learn, but they didn’t know how to learn effectively. Instructors, on the other hand, struggled to connect their teaching to the students’ perspective, leaving gaps in understanding that could compromise progress—and safety.

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That’s when it struck me: educational theory and design could provide powerful insights into creating a flight training environment where both instructors and students are on the same map. By aligning their efforts and focusing on the how and why of learning, we could transform the flight training experience into one that’s not only more effective but also more engaging and rewarding for everyone involved.

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The Flight Envelope Difference

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What sets us apart? It’s not just about what we teach—it’s how we teach it. At Flight Envelope:

• We make learning fun: Our approach encourages curiosity and exploration, making flight training a joy, not a chore.

• We prioritise efficiency: With clear goals and real-world relevance, our methods save time without sacrificing depth.

• We’re driven by safety: Every lesson is designed to reduce risks and empower pilots to handle challenges confidently.

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