Population stereotypes in pedal control of a "ball-bank" indicator

Abstract

"Sixty-four young male college students were asked to press simulated rudder pedals to center ball-type indicators. One indicator was a simulated standard ball inclinometer. The other was one with the standard tube inverted and more angular. The subjects failed to approach even a chance distribution of correct responses in using either instrument. The differences from chance are highly significant. It is concluded that the present aircraft instrument offers a display which is contrary to the population stereotype and invites erroneous responses from untrained subjects. The reactions of the subjects support the conclusion that the population stereotype for pedal action in centering off-center indicators is to use the foot opposite to the direction of displacement." (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)