My only nickel on this topic.

 

I don't believe that experiencing a *fully developed* stall is the panacea that some would content.  However, I *do* think that experiencing the slow flight characteristics *prior* to a stall are indeed a valuable experience.  For example, what do *mushy* controls feel like, how much control authority does it take to recover, etc - all *prior* to a stall.

 

Now some would argue that you have to get into a stall to experience any of the above, however I would argue differently. That first time you get close to a high AOA, and are only *close* to an impending stall is all you need to know you never *really* want to get there.

 

Also, while on this topic... For those with an AOA, *DO NOT* trust that because you bought the model that is made for your particular airframe, and were told that it came *pre calibrated*, that you still don't need to go do the calibration procedure.