Standard phraseology provides a shared linguistic framework for routine aviation communication. Its value lies in predictability and consistency, particularly when speakers come from different linguistic backgrounds.
For cadet candidates, phraseology is often perceived as intimidating. In some ICAO ELP tests it is expected that candidates have a background knowledge of aviation including phraseology. However phraseology is usually something that is taught during flight training by qualified instructors. A good ICAO ELP test will inherently require a significant proportion of the test to be direct communication with ATC using standard phraseology, however that should also include appropriate plain English in an aeronautical context when phraseology alone will not suffice.
However many candidates for a cadet programme will not have exposure or prior training in phraseology, so when this type of test is used it can cause the candidate to focus on learning phraseology (which they are conscious is new to them) instead of improving their English in an aeronautical context (which they are not conscious of). The testing of a candidate on situations which require background knowledge of phraseology not only puts candidates in an unfair position, but also distracts candidates from improving relevant skills at a time which would otherwise be highly motivating. The training industry also becomes skewed - it causes unqualified English teachers to start teaching phraseology to gullible candidates who would know no better, and causes know-it-all pilots to disregard the importance of appropriate plain English that the tests were intended to assess.
To candidates with pilot licenses it is essential that ICAO ELP tests have a significant radiotelephony component that requires direct communication with ATCO. The scenarios should be constructed so that the candidate can swiftly change from RT to plain English. Phraseology alone can lead to rote memorisation, where phrases are readback accurately but without functional understanding of the context.
Phraseology is not intended to replace language proficiency. It functions effectively only when there is a foundation of proficiency in basic and complex structures. When situations fall outside standard scenarios, pilots must rely on plain English to clarify, negotiate, and resolve issues. And the list of possible interactions is far greater than that.
Understanding the role of phraseology, and its place in ICAO ELP assessment is essential for cadet-level preparation. In our view, ICAO ELP assessments aren't appropriate for ab initio cadet selection. So what about ICAO tests without a radiotelephony component? These tests actually undermine the role of valid ICAO ELP tests, by testing skilled candidates on the wrong thing, and unskilled candidates on the right thing.
Conclusion
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regardless of test used, Aviation English Asia Ltd courses are an appropriate training solution
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Aviation English Asia Ltd teachers are qualified and experienced in teaching phraseology
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airlines and flight schools should adopt the AEROSTAF Cadet Pilot Language Test for cadet selection
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tests for licensed pilots and ATCOs must include a radiotelephony component or should be replaced
- ICAO ELP tests must be constructed in such a way that the test scenarios necessitate a wide variety of communicative functions that might not necessarily be covered by standard phraseology
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Aviation English Asia Ltd has been delivering appropriate language training and testing solutions for ab initios and cadet entry pilots since 2009.
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