Definition
An instructional principle directing the instructor to acknowledge a learner's correct actions, sound decisions, or genuine progress at the moment they occur, rather than commenting only on errors. Recognition is given honestly and only when warranted, so that praise retains its meaning and reinforces the specific behavior the instructor wants the learner to repeat.
Plain English
When a student does something well, say so. Don't only point out what they got wrong. Honest praise, given at the right moment, builds confidence and helps good habits stick.
Context Anchor
Used in flight and ground instruction when an instructor is giving feedback to reduce frustration and keep the learner engaged.
Why Pilots Care
Reinforces correct performance, maintains learner motivation, and reduces the frustration that contributes to training dropout.
Intuition Check
Do not read this as “praise everything.” It means recognize what was actually done well, when the learner has earned it.
Example Sentence 1
After the learner flew a stable, well-trimmed approach, the instructor made a point to give credit when due before moving on to debrief the rough landing flare.
Example Sentence 2
By giving credit when due for completing the preflight inspection thoroughly, the CFI encouraged the student to keep building good habits.