a. Step-by-Step Procedures. The skills taught can be manual or mental. Skills
are abilities whose performance can be improved by accurate, repeated practice trials.
In order to provide the soldier with the greatest help, the demonstration must be
perfectly performed, and the same procedure must be followed every time the skill is
demonstrated. If the procedure is very complicated or consists of many steps, each
step should be performed slowly to be sure that the soldiers understand. It may be
necessary to have each step, or each few steps, practiced separately before attempting
the whole procedure. Examples of this in the medical field might be the procedures for
pharmaceutical calculations and the techniques used in physical assessment.
b. Demonstration of Principles. Many technical fields use theories based on
physical principles. Frequently the demonstration can show how these principles affect
the work of the technician. This contributes to the soldiers' understanding of why things
work as they do. Even though the blood's solids are not apparent to the naked eye,
their importance can be demonstrated by using a centrifuge to separate the solids from
the plasma.
c. Problem Solving. If soldiers are aware of the methods for solving certain
types of problems and are then presented with facts and a problem to be solved, they
can apply these methods. This process is frequently used in field training exercises
which are part of the Medical NCO resident course.
d. Demonstration of Methods. The inner workings of the human body are not
generally available for student study. These are frequently demonstrated to classes
using a training film, cutaway model, or videotape.
e. Cooperation of Persons or Groups. Demonstrations of this type show the
internal implementation of regulations, standing operating procedures (SOP), or other
activities which depend on the successful interaction of two or more people. These are
frequently illustrated by a group of students performing a skit or by a role-play situation.
f. Gain Student Approval. Almost any kind of demonstration that runs
smoothly will result in the approval of those watching and their appreciation of the
method of procedure demonstrated.
3-32. PLAN AND CONDUCT A DEMONSTRATION
For any type of demonstration, you must make certain that all needed supplies
and equipment are arranged for your use. If a practical exercise is to follow the
demonstration, all supplies and equipment for the students must be in place. Pay
careful attention to these points:
MD0560
3-23