Helping Learners Complete Lab Exercises

B.

The best approach for an instructor to help a learner who is struggling with a lab exercise depends on the specific situation and the learner's needs. However, in general, the FIRST step an instructor can take to help the learner complete the exercise is to verify the learner's steps and guide them through the next uncompleted steps by using encouraging words.

Option B is the most appropriate and effective choice because it allows the instructor to identify and address any misunderstandings or mistakes the learner may have made while completing the exercise. The instructor can provide feedback, clarify concepts or procedures, and offer additional explanations or examples as needed. Moreover, using encouraging words such as "great job" or "you're on the right track" can help the learner build confidence, feel supported, and stay motivated.

Option A may be a useful approach in some cases, but it should not be the FIRST step because it does not provide immediate feedback or guidance to the learner. Instead, it can be used to gather information about the learner's perspective, experience, or challenges, and tailor the instruction accordingly. However, it is important to avoid making assumptions or judgments about the learner's abilities or attitudes, and to use active listening skills to understand their concerns and goals.

Option C may be a viable approach if the learner is a visual or kinesthetic learner, or if the exercise is complex or critical. However, it should not be the FIRST step because it can create a dependency on the instructor, limit the learner's autonomy or creativity, or disrupt the flow of the lesson. Instead, it can be used as a supplement or alternative to the regular instruction, or as a review or assessment tool.

Option D may be a helpful approach if the lab exercise is poorly designed, unclear, or inconsistent. However, it should not be the FIRST step because it does not address the learner's individual needs, preferences, or challenges, and may not improve their understanding or performance. Instead, it can be used as a complement or improvement to the existing instructions, or as a reference or reminder for the whole class.

In summary, the best FIRST step an instructor can take to help a learner complete a lab exercise is to verify the learner's steps and guide them through the next uncompleted steps by using encouraging words. This approach can provide timely feedback, clarify misunderstandings, and motivate the learner to continue learning and exploring.