Sharing relevant experience at the start of an aircraft maintenance class is very important because it builds credibility and trust with students, making the instructor's technical knowledge more meaningful. For students entering a high-stakes, hands-on field, hearing about a seasoned mechanic's real-world examples and challenges makes the theoretical information more concrete and memorable.
- Boosts credibility: In a highly technical and safety-conscious environment, in this case, aviation, students need to believe their instructor is competent and knowledgeable. Sharing a background that includes practical, hands-on field experience and relevant certifications (in this case, an FAA Airframe and Powerplant or A&P license) assures students that the instructor can prepare them for a real-world career.
- Humanizes the instructor: Strategic storytelling from experience can build a stronger rapport between the instructor and students. A relatable anecdote about overcoming an on-the-job challenge makes the instructor seem more approachable and can open the door for students to feel more comfortable asking questions.
- Enlivens abstract concepts: Real-world stories, or "pearls of wisdom" from the field, can make technical material more engaging and less abstract. For example, describing how an engine problem was diagnosed and fixed on a specific aircraft breathes life into a textbook troubleshooting procedure.
- Emphasizes safety and real-world stakes: Real-world examples reinforce why strict adherence to regulations and safety protocols is crucial. An instructor can share a story (while maintaining confidentiality) about a maintenance error that led to an investigation, illustrating the serious consequences of negligence. This provides a strong, memorable lesson that textbook instructions alone cannot convey.
- Models professional behavior: By discussing professional triumphs and mistakes, an instructor models the reflective practice necessary for continuous improvement in a dynamic field. An experienced instructor who is willing to discuss how one has overcome past learning obstacles shows students the resilience and commitment required to succeed in the aviation industry.
