Selection of Method

Your selection of an instructional method or combination of methods should be based primarily on the lesson objectives. The nature of the student activity should indicate to you the method that could be used to stimulate and guide the students. For example, if the student must gain proficiency at flying instrument approaches, then he or she must be allowed to get into the airplane and actually practice flying the approach. You must explain and demonstrate how the approach is to be flown. You must also present the student with several problem situations and approaches to assure broad student proficiency. This indicates that the selection of an instructional method is an integral part of lesson planning.
The selection of an instructional method hinges primarily on three things:

• The lesson objectives.
• The type of student activity necessary.
 • The type of instructor activity required.

The objectives indicate the type of student activity which dictates the instructor activity or method to be used.
Limiting Factors in Selection of Method. In planning instructional activities, you may not always be able to use the method that you prefer because of certain limiting factors. In addition to the nature of the objectives and the type of activity required, you should consider:

• The background and ability of the students.
• The number of students.
• Your ability as an instructor.
• The time allotted to the lesson.
• Available facilities.

You should consider these factors (and any others which would bear on the effectiveness of the lesson) as limiting, but not determining, factors. They have their effect, but they are not overriding or conclusive.