Airway Science Curriculum Demonstration Project: Summary of Initial Evaluation Findings

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Airway Science Curriculum Demonstration Project: Summary of Initial Evaluation Findings

D. L. Clough

The performance, perceptions, and characteristics of Airway Science hires were compared with those of traditional hires. As of May 12, 1987, a total of 197 Airway Science candidates had been selected into FAA occupations. The demographic characteristics of Airway Science and traditional hires tended to differ, although these differences were more marked for Air Traffic Control Specialists and much less so for Electronics Technicians. Findings for two of the eight project objectives were noteworthy. First, there was considerable evidence of the academic community's interest in and support of the Airway Science curriculum. Second, lower performance on the Air Traffic Control Specialist Initial Qualification Screen program (Terminal/Enroute) was found for Airway Science hires. Few strong, consistent findings were observed for the remaining Airway Science project objectives for which data were available. Two limitations associated with the project evaluation at this time were described. First, greater numbers of both Airway Science hires (particularly Airway Science graduates) and traditional hires are required for a full examination of the project's components. In addition, more time is needed to track the attitudes, perceptions, and performances of project participants, most of whom are still in the early stages of training. Differences between the samples may be expected to emerge over time. Keywords: Selection; Airway science; Career progression. (SDW)