Motivation, 1 missing ingredient in Competency Based Training.

Motivation: An Essential Element of Competency-Based Training

Introduction
In aviation, a pilot’s performance during training and on the line is assessed through competencies. The transition from prescriptive hour-based methods to Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) highlights a need to sustain a minimum acceptable level of knowledge, skill, and attitude. To achieve consistent performance, there must be an integration of a crucial fourth component: motivation.

Definition of Motivation and Competency

• Competency: A blend of knowledge, skills, attitudes, and now, motivation, required to perform tasks to a specific standard.
• Motivation: The process that initiates, directs, and sustains goal-oriented behaviors.

External Resource:

For a deeper dive into motivation theory, explore Self-Determination Theory by Deci and Ryan. This theory explains how intrinsic motivation fosters learning and performance.

Performance and Its Relation to Motivation

Performance is the outcome of learning, based on an individual’s ability, resources, and motivation. Deficiency in one area, such as ability, can only be compensated to a limited extent by an increase in resources. Motivation, however, plays a critical role in maintaining and enhancing performance, even in challenging situations.

Motivation in Aviation Training

Pilots must be intrinsically motivated and self-regulated to perform consistently. High motivation can significantly elevate performance, even when ability or resources are average. For more on how motivation impacts performance, read this study on intrinsic motivation in education.

Measuring Motivation

Several tools exist to assess motivation, such as the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ), which evaluates aspects like intrinsic goal orientation and self-efficacy. Learn more about motivation measurement tools used in educational settings.

Internal Resource:

For insights on how motivation links with performance and competency assessment, see our related article on Effective Competency-Based Assessment in Aviation.

Conclusion

Motivation is a critical component of sustainable learning in CBTA. It binds knowledge, skills, and attitudes and ensures they are retained over time. The next step in competency definition is to integrate motivation as a core element. Therefore, the definition of competency should evolve to include motivation:
“Competency: A combination of knowledge, skills, attitudes, and motivation required to perform tasks to the prescribed standard.”