What is the instructor's role during skill practice, according to recommended methods?

The instructor's role during skill practice is primarily to guide participants and assess their skills. By doing so, the instructor facilitates a supportive learning environment where individuals can receive immediate feedback and personalized instruction. This approach allows for the identification of specific strengths and areas for improvement, ensuring that participants develop the necessary competencies in a structured manner.

Additionally, this method encourages active participation and engagement, as learners are more likely to absorb skills when they receive constructive feedback and guidance throughout the practice session. The instructor's involvement helps to clarify any misconceptions and reinforces proper techniques, which is essential in a lifeguarding context where skills need to be executed correctly for safety reasons.

Providing lengthy lectures on each skill would detract from hands-on practice, as it does not allow participants to actively engage with the skills they are learning. Similarly, allowing participants to self-assess without guidance may lead to the development of improper techniques or a lack of confidence in their abilities, as individuals may not accurately evaluate their own performance without an instructor's expertise. Therefore, guiding participants and assessing their skills is vital for their success and safety in lifeguarding roles.