Definition
In the context of learning, a condition is a circumstance, situation, or set of constraints under which a learner is expected to perform a task. Conditions form one of the three required parts of a well-written performance-based learning objective, alongside the desired behavior and the standard of performance.
Plain English
The 'condition' part of a learning objective describes the situation the student will be in when they perform the task — what tools they'll have, what limits apply, and what the setting looks like.
Context Anchor
Seen in lesson objectives, training plans, and instructor evaluations when describing how a student will demonstrate a skill.
Derivation
From the Latin condicio, meaning 'agreement' or 'stipulation.' In teaching, the 'conditions' are the stipulated circumstances under which the student must perform — the agreed-upon setup for the task.
Why Pilots Care
Instructors writing lesson plans must clearly specify conditions so students know exactly what is expected. A student preparing for a checkride needs to understand the conditions of each task — for example, whether a maneuver must be performed by reference to instruments only, or in visual conditions.
Intuition Check
Condition does not mean the aircraft’s physical shape here. In this instructor context, it means the circumstances or limits under which the student must perform.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor wrote the learning objective with clear conditions: 'Given a sectional chart and a flight planning form, the student will calculate a cross-country route.'
Example Sentence 2
Changing weather conditions required the crew to update their fuel planning.