Plain English Meaning
A personality test that sorts people into sixteen types based on how they take in information, make decisions, and interact with the world. Instructors can use it to better understand how a learner thinks and what teaching style might work best for them.
Full Definition
A personality assessment tool that classifies individuals into one of sixteen personality types based on four pairs of opposing preferences: Extraversion vs. Introversion (where a person directs energy), Sensing vs. Intuition (how a person takes in information), Thinking vs. Feeling (how a person makes decisions), and Judging vs. Perceiving (how a person approaches the outside world). The result is expressed as a four-letter code (for example, ISTJ or ENFP). In aviation instruction, it is referenced as one framework for understanding learner differences and tailoring teaching approaches.
Context Anchor
Seen in the Aviation Instructor’s Handbook when discussing the relationship between instructor and learner and how people differ in the way they learn and communicate.