What teaching method should have been employed if a trainee is physically required to repeat steps after instruction?

The method of demonstrating is appropriate when a trainee needs to physically repeat steps after receiving instruction. This method involves showing the trainee how to perform a specific task or procedure through a visual presentation, allowing them to observe the nuances of the actions being taught. After the demonstration, trainees can then participate in a hands-on practice where they replicate the demonstrated skills. This direct involvement is key to reinforcing learning, as it helps them internalize the process through active participation rather than passive absorption of information.

In this context, demonstrating provides the clear visual and experiential guidance necessary for the trainee to understand and execute the steps involved in the task effectively. It facilitates immediate feedback, as instructors can correct mistakes as they occur during practice. This contrasts with methods such as guided discovery, which may involve more exploration and less direct instruction, and lecture-based instruction, which primarily disseminates information without the hands-on engagement that is crucial for skill acquisition. Independent study, while valuable for self-paced learning, lacks the instructor-led demonstration that is essential in this scenario for effectively teaching physical tasks.