b. Learning by Training Aid. Too many ideas presented at one time or too
many details on any one training aid will tend to confuse and hamper student learning.
Decide what type of aid will best assist soldier learning. While equipment and facilities
do aid in learning, these are not considered training aids. See paragraphs 3-21 through
3-29 for descriptions of specific training aids.
3-17. WHY USE TRAINING AIDS?
By the use of training aids, you can accomplish several objectives that would be
very difficult using lecture alone.
a. Sensory Mode Stimulation. The sensory modes are sight, hearing, taste,
smell, and touch. Studies have shown that more efficient learning takes place when two
modes are used together than when only one is used. If students can see an actual
object while you are talking about it, they will show better understanding. Words alone
often paint different pictures to different people, based on their range of experience.
While you know exactly what you are talking about, many students will get an entirely
different picture. Because of its broader appeal, visual instruction is much more
effective than words alone.
b. Interest to the Student. Training aids add interest and perk up instruction.
They tend to focus the student's attention on the lesson being presented. When used
correctly, they add variety to the presentation. In many training situations, the use of
the actual object, a model, or a short training film adds realism to the subject. This can
give the student motivation which helps to maintain his readiness for learning.
c. Clarify the Subject. The most important reason for using training aids is to
make it easier for students to learn. Good training aids simplify, add emphasis, and
help clarify difficult points of subject matter. Confusion is eliminated, and student
understanding is enhanced. This helps both the slow and the fast learner. Some aids
can help in memorization, but their greatest value will be seen when the student must
learn procedure or principles.
d. Faster Learning. It would be difficult, if not impossible to learn many of the
patient care medical tasks without training aids. At best, use of the right training aid will
save time for both the student and the instructor.
3-18. A GOOD TRAINING AID
In order to be suitable for use in an Army training program, a training aid must
meet the following criteria.
MD0560
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