Definition 1 of 2
Definition
In scenario-based training, the power supply is the underlying personal motivation, drive, and goals the learner brings to the training event. It is what energizes the learner to engage with the scenario and complete the desired learning outcomes.
Plain English
It is the inner reason the student wants to learn — the personal goals and motivation that keep them engaged during a training scenario.
Context Anchor
Seen when discussing aircraft electrical systems, simulator or classroom equipment, and backup power for devices used during training.
Derivation
Borrowed from the electrical sense of a power supply — the source that energizes a circuit. In training, the learner's motivation is the source that energizes their effort and engagement.
Why Pilots Care
Loss of power supply can disable critical instruments and radios, forcing reliance on backups and affecting flight safety and decision-making.
Intuition Check
Power supply does not mean engine power here. It means the electricity source that keeps equipment operating.
Example Sentence 1
Before designing the cross-country scenario, the instructor asked about the student's career goals to tap into their power supply.
Example Sentence 2
An alternator failure left the aircraft on battery power supply alone for the remainder of the flight.