I received my training at a Major University flight program that was in the
process of taking it one step further and combining 2 year (VFR / IFR)
course into a combined accelerated schedule (1 year- maybe 3 semesters, I
got out before it became official). I was learning instruments & approaches
VERY early. The only complaint I received on my PPL exam was to look out the
window more often! Since I did not go pro, or even finish the IFR - I kind
of wish I did not learn that way, so flying a minimum equip. craft wouldn't
scare the snot out of me. ;-) But I could shoot an ILS to minimums without
breaking a sweat!




"Allen" wrote in message
. com...

"Bob Moore" wrote in message
. 122...
Jose wrote
In early training, seat-of-the-pants and look-out-the-window flying
should be emphasized, and in later training, one should be constantly
reminded not to get into the habit of fixating on the geegaws.

Jose, unfortunately, way back in the '60s or '70s, the FAA introduced
"Integrated Flight Training". A program where use of the "instruments"
(not hood time) was to be introduced from the begining. Most of the
older, more experienced flight instructors know this to be unwise, but
Part 141 schools are coerced by the FAA into using a syllabus based on
this FAA program.


This integrated instrument time was in the syllabus at the schools I
taught
at. When the student got the basic scan down his altitude and heading
control improved considerably. What it did that I didn't like was
reliance
on the gauges while he was VMC (head down and locked). I would have to
cover the attitude indicator to get them to look outside again. I have
had
several students take and pass the Private Pilot checkride with just 35
hours in their logbooks (following the syllabus).

Allen