Plain English Meaning

A clear, written set of rules that say what the student must be able to do, and how well they must do it, before they can be judged as having learned the task.

Full Definition

Pre-defined criteria that specify the level of skill, knowledge, or behavior a student must demonstrate to be considered competent at a task. In aviation training, these standards come from official sources such as the Airman Certification Standards (ACS) or Practical Test Standards (PTS), and they define the measurable outcomes the student must achieve.

Context Anchor

Seen in instructor evaluation, progress checks, and FAA practical test preparation, when a student’s demonstrated ability is compared with required performance levels.