Section IV. DEMONSTRATIONS
3-30. IMPORTANCE OF THE DEMONSTRATION
The objective of military instruction is to train the soldier. The soldier is trained to
do. Because of this emphasis on doing, the Army instructor must provide the soldier
with a pattern for doing along with an explanation of what, when, and how. The
demonstration is an effective way to provide this pattern while setting the standards for
performance. The effectiveness of the demonstration as a training aid is based on
several motivational factors. The strength of these factors influences the soldier's sense
of sight and hearing.
a. Degree of Respect for the Leader. The greater the soldier's respect for the
leader or instructor, the more likely he is to pay close attention to a demonstration.
b. Desire to Meet or Exceed Performance Standards. If the soldier wants to
complete/pass the course, he will learn from the demonstration better than if he has no
real desire.
c. Need for Approval. The soldier who needs the approval of his peers, his
family, and/or his superiors will find a demonstration one of the best ways to get the
knowledge he requires to gain this approval.
d. Need for New Experience. If the soldier has not seen the demonstrated
procedure before, he is more likely to watch with a great deal of interest.
e. Need to Be Active. Demonstration is preparatory to the active participation
of the soldier in a hands-on procedure. Therefore it appeals strongly to the soldier who
is oriented toward active rather than passive participation.
3-31. PURPOSE OF THE DEMONSTRATION
The demonstration is a training aid rather than a separate teaching method. It is
used with many teaching methods that are usually preceded by or concurrent with the
demonstration. Teaching methods can be lecture, conference, programmed self-study,
or some other method of explanation. For the greatest benefit, the demonstration
should be followed by a hands-on practical exercise during which the soldier is
encouraged to practice the skill or procedure he has just seen demonstrated. The most
common use for the demonstration is to introduce new skills or procedures, but it can
also be used for other purposes. The demonstration can teach:
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