Blog Post #2

Direct Instruction, sometimes referred to as explicit teaching or teaching for mastery, is an instructional approach centred on structured, sequential learning supported by clear teacher guidance. In this approach, content is broken into smaller components and introduced step by step, with instructors modelling expected skills, providing guided practice, and offering immediate feedback. Learning is structured so that students build foundational understanding before progressing to more complex tasks. 

Some of the key features of why Direct Instruction is highly effective:

• Instruction matches student skill levels, allowing learners to work at an appropriate pace based on what they already know. 
• Lessons are structured for mastery, introducing small amounts of new material while reinforcing previously learned skills through practice.
• Instruction adapts to individual learning rates, providing extra support or providing faster paced lessons as needed.
• Programs are tested and refined, making sure instructional methods are clear and effective before implementation.

This approach aligns well with my group’s chosen topic because of its focus on explicit explanation, modelling, and guided practice, which is important when students are learning new concepts and technical skills. Our learning resource teaches students how to evaluate projects using economic principles alongside Excel-based financial modelling. Learners must understand ideas such as the time value of money, depreciation, and discounted cash flow before they can meaningfully apply formulas or interpret results within a spreadsheet. Direct Instruction supports the learning process by providing clear demonstrations and structured practice that reduce confusion and help students develop confidence before engaging with more complex financial analysis.

Direct Instruction, therefore, has a clear place in our final Interactive Learning Design, especially when students are first building their understanding and confidence with both economic concepts and Excel skills. The structure of our modules gives students chances to practice with guidance and show their understanding before moving on to more applied tasks. Direct Instruction works as a starting point that helps students build the skills they need before moving into deeper thinking, where the focus shifts from simply doing calculations to understanding what the results actually mean and using them to make decisions.

References

Engelmann, Siegfried . “Basic Philosophy.” Www.nifdi.org, www.nifdi.org/what-is-di/basic-philosophy.html.

NIFDIINFO. “Intro to DI: What Is Direct Instruction?” YouTube, 18 May 2017, www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkjxO3PSzwk.

Smith, Tricia. “Direct Instruction | EBSCO.” EBSCO Information Services, Inc. | Www.ebsco.com, 2024, www.ebsco.com/research-starters/education/direct-instruction.

TeachLikeThis. “How to Do Direct Instruction – TeachLikeThis.” YouTube, 11 Oct. 2013, www.youtube.com/watch?v=OJJkkUPC_yM.