How to Teach a Skill

Practice Skills

Dec 11

1. Demonstrate the Skill

Have them learn the skill first, then show variations. Don’t give other options here: wait. Demonstrating variations at the beginning is only confusing for the student.

demonstrate at normal speed (without stopping or slowing down)
view from all sides (from the front, the back, as appropriate)
demonstrate more than once, if necessary

2. Explain the Importance of the Skill

explain the functional application(s)
explain any benefits
give illustrations, if necessary

3. Demonstrate the Skill Again

While you are demonstrating, be sure to explain what you are doing and what the patient is doing.

go slowly, be exact
describe each point required for success
3 to 5 points are enough

4. Have the Students Try It

Learning a skill takes a lot of repetition. This is especially true for the learning of complex skills or when teaching students with all new information.

repetition is good
provide help as needed
encourage feedback

5. Any Problems?

This is what “makes it or breaks it.” Your role, when your students try a skill, is to help them when things go wrong. You need good observation skills and good problem-solving skills. What exactly do they need to know so they have success?

Have you ever had a ski lesson or a golf lesson? A good instructor will find the one component, which makes the difference in your performance. A less effective instructor will give so much information - or give so many variables - that it becomes nearly impossible to learn.

this is your time to problem solve!
make corrections
give tips or necessary modifications

6. Demonstrate with an Actual Patient

Be consistent with the words you are using and the wording on visuals or written materials. It can be confusing for the learner to hear one thing as their eyes see another. Read it exactly as is, then say it again (rephrased) if necessary for more clarification.

demonstrate with a patient, photos, or videos
give clarity to points in #3

7. Add Variations

now add more options
modify as needed
teach them problem solving!

Practice SkillsBest Practices for Teaching

Jan Davis, MS, OTR/L

Founder and president of International Clinical Educators, Jan Davis specializes in using video technology (filmed with real patients and therapists) to create innovative, state of the art educational materials for practicing clinicians as well as occupational therapy and physical therapy faculty and students.