As previously discussed, the instructor will need to select instructional methods and materials to match the material to be learned, the needs of the students, and the constraints surrounding the instruction process. Instructional methods, such as direct, indirect, interactive, experiential, and independent study, all have different requirements for the delivery of effective instruction. Examples of instructional tools are summarized in the attached image.
General guidelines for instructional tools are described below and will vary depending on the instruction method being employed:
- Structure all aspects of the instruction to the audience and subject matter.
- Provide a syllabus or structured schedule of lectures to be presented
- Begin and end with a summary, where appropriate
- Provide a logical progression of the material to be learned.
- Structure the information to assist the students in retention of the most important material
- Design the instruction in small blocks, where possible, and allow time for appropriate interaction with the audience.
