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FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR'S MANUAL     19

the same manner from the pilot's viewpoint, changes of the relative position of the earth will cause no confusion.

Some students will have difficulty in using the proper foot when applying rudder due to childhood experience with sleds and scooters, where the steering action is just opposite to the rudder action of an aircraft.  This confusion should soon be eliminated.  If not, a mechanical device should be arranged on which the student can practice moving stick and rudder (hands and feet) in the proper direction.  Such a device can easily be made with a spare stick and rudder bar, or set of pedals and shock cord.  The student can then practice until coordinating his pressures becomes instinctive.

The student should be shown the proper way to place his toes on the rudder bar or pedals.  It should be explained, and demonstrated, that pressures can be exerted much better by the toes than by the instep or heel.  Comparison with the accelerator of an automobile will make this immediately apparent to the student.  The rudder is to be used by pressure, and not movement, in the same manner as the automobile accelerator.  The position of the feet should be a comfortable one with all the weight on the heels, thus allowing a fine sensitivity of touch in the toes.  Many students who have trouble developing feel of the rudder have been benefited by wearing rubber sneakers, or even house slippers, in stubborn cases.

The stick should be grasped lightly with the fingers and not grabbed and squeezed.  Except in violent acrobatic maneuvers, the pressure is exterted on the stick with the fingers.  The instructor should be continuously alert for attempts by the student to "choke the stick," and should take any measures necessary to break such a habit, because this not only prevents the development of feel, but demonstrates the presence of apprehension and tension on the part of the student.  It may even be an underlying and contributing cause of such apprehension and tension.

A sure sign of this habit is "the sweating palm."

"Trick grips" on the stick should be avoided in trying to prevent the habit of "choking the stick," as this, too, may become a habit, difficult to break later.  The student should have the degree of firmness with which he grasps the stick coordinated with the pressures he is to exert on the control and this will require some time to develop properly.  No obstacles should be placed in the way of its development.

COMMUNICATION AND SIGNALS

A speaking tube arrangement or other means of verbal communication is almost a necessity in tandem aircraft, and is also of great assistance in the higher-powered side by side craft, since it saves much wear and tear on the instructor's vocal cords and will prevent any illusion of anger, disapproval, or vehemence which may be caused by having to shout at the student to make him understand.  A normal, smooth, soothing voice in the speaking tube in much more effective at all times and is particularly effective in easing tension and promoting relaxation.

The position of the student in the ship is important beyond mere comfort for he must be comfortable in order to relax.  If he isn't