Definition
Describing training objectives, standards, or assessments that are stated in terms of observable, measurable actions a learner must perform, rather than what they should know, understand, or feel. A performance-based objective specifies the task to be done, the conditions under which it is done, and the standard to which it must be done.
Plain English
Built around what the student can actually do, not just what they know. Success is measured by watching them perform a task to a set standard, not by asking them to describe it.
Context Anchor
Seen in aviation training objectives, lesson plans, and standards, where an instructor states what the learner must be able to demonstrate.
Derivation
Performance comes from the Old French parfornir, meaning to carry out or complete. A performance-based standard is one judged by carrying the task out, not by talking about it.
Why Pilots Care
Ensures training produces observable, verifiable skills rather than relying on unmeasurable claims of understanding.
Intuition Check
Do not read performance-based as aircraft performance data, such as climb rate or takeoff distance. Here it means training or evaluation based on demonstrated action.
Example Sentence 1
The lesson uses a performance-based objective: the student must complete a power-off stall recovery within 100 feet of the entry altitude.
Example Sentence 2
Instructors use performance-based standards to decide when a student is ready for the next phase of training.