Mach:
I would like to see more training done when the wind is howling, rain is bucketing down and the scud is barely above MSA. That approach teaches students to know how far they can go, and a bit of respect for the elements.
Couldn't agree more, but this again comes back to the fact that the guys teaching have (in many cases) never been exposed to such scenarios themselves. How can one hope to teach a skill they have not yet mastered themselves?
The dumbing down of the species seems to be happening in order to fill some junior pilot's (instructor's) log book without him/her having to leave the comfort and security of the circuit/training area.
Instructing should not be a means of building experience, rather a chance for others to benefit from yours!