Certainly time for an update.
Open book exams ... well there are some things that you need to pull out of the air when you're on the job - maybe a mix of open book and essential 'must know'?
How about some stuff on computer-based flight planning?
Definitely need much more on GPS
Agree about how to prepare for a new aircraft type using a real POH
Had to use light signals a couple of weeks ago - never done that for real before - it was a very bright day and I couldn't see them from a mile away.
Many schools have a diverse fleet with different panel fits - how many students can demonstrate what ALL the knobs do on the aircraft they fly (intercom panel, auto-pilot on/off?, what do all those circuit breakers do?)
AND
How about approach and land without an ASI?
SD