Plain English Meaning

A facilitator is a teacher who helps students figure things out by asking good questions and steering the conversation, instead of just telling them the answers.

Full Definition

In the guided discussion method of instruction, a facilitator is the instructor who guides student learning by asking thought-provoking questions, managing the flow of discussion, and helping students arrive at understanding through their own reasoning, rather than by lecturing or supplying answers directly.

Context Anchor

Seen in the Aviation Instructor’s Handbook when describing the guided discussion method of teaching.

Derivation

From the Latin facilis, meaning 'easy.' A facilitator is literally someone who makes something easier — in this case, making it easier for students to reach understanding on their own.

Why Pilots Care

Proper facilitation builds critical thinking and decision-making skills that need when facing real situations in .