Memory Strategies for the Pilot

Abstract

Theorists have studied the problem of forgetting for a number of years; however, very little application has been made to the general aviation pilot. This paper considers some concepts for understanding the processes involved when important tasks are forgotten and/or certain “actions-not-as-planned†are executed. While there are numerous ways suggested by memory specialists, a few may be particularly applicable to flight. Forgetting can be explained as an activation issue as defined in the concepts of action theory. A structural model of three stages is used to explain some psychological processes of the memory system. Finally, some suggestions for the practical enhancements of memory are offered along with recommendations for further memory research.