Plain English Meaning

The person being taught. The FAA uses 'learner' instead of 'student' to highlight that the individual is actively working to gain knowledge and skill, not just sitting in a seat.

Full Definition

In the Aviation Instructor's Handbook, a learner is any person actively engaged in acquiring aviation knowledge or skill under the guidance of an instructor. The term replaces the older word 'student' to emphasize that learning is an active, lifelong process rather than a fixed status tied to a training stage.

Context Anchor

Seen in the Aviation Instructor’s Handbook when discussing how instructors teach, evaluate, and communicate with the person being trained.

Derivation

From the Old English 'leornian,' meaning 'to acquire knowledge or skill by study, experience, or instruction.' The FAA's choice of 'learner' over 'student' is deliberate: 'student' suggests someone enrolled in a , while 'learner' emphasizes the ongoing, active effort to gain ability.