What does having a critical eye enable an instructor to do during skill performance observations?

Having a critical eye during skill performance observations allows an instructor to notice both correct and incorrect steps in the execution of skills by students. This ability is crucial for effective teaching, as it enables the instructor to provide specific feedback that can help students improve their performance. By recognizing what students are doing correctly, the instructor can reinforce positive behaviors, while identifying incorrect steps helps in addressing errors and guiding learners to correct their techniques. This process not only aids in skill development but also enhances the students' understanding of the concepts being taught, ultimately leading to better overall performance in lifeguarding skills.

While assessing class dynamics, recording grades, and identifying top-performing students may be valuable tasks, they do not directly contribute to the immediate instructional impact that comes from addressing specific performance steps. Being focused on skill execution is what fosters improvement and learning in a practical setting.