Test preparation issues in the aeronautical context in Brazil

Abstract

For safety reasons, language training for pilots and air traffic controllers (ATCOs) should go beyond test preparation and provide the practice that is necessary in aeronautical communications. In other words, the aim of aeronautical English training should rather be safety than merely passing a test. However, considering the high stakes involved, test preparation is constantly sought by test takers. Scholars have argued that test preparation has the potential to be positive if it leads to meaningful test scores and is learning-oriented (PLAKANS; GEBRIL, 2015). Based on this premise, this presentation aims at discussing the potential positive and negative aspects of aeronautical English test preparation for ATCOs and civil pilots, both on teachers and students, in the Brazilian scenario.