Which instructional method is preferred when the audience has basic knowledge of the subject?

When the audience has a foundational understanding of the subject, the preferred instructional method is discussion. This approach allows participants to engage with the material actively, share insights, ask questions, and clarify concepts based on their prior knowledge.

Discussions facilitate a deeper exploration of ideas, encouraging learners to draw from their experiences while enhancing their comprehension through interaction with others. This method fosters critical thinking as learners analyze and critique various perspectives, which can enrich their understanding of fire and life safety topics.

Other methods, while effective in various contexts, may not be as suitable for an audience with basic knowledge. Role playing can be more effective for audiences that require practice in real-life scenarios, whereas case studies often work best when there is a need to apply knowledge to specific situations. Brainstorming tends to generate ideas and solutions but may not leverage the existing knowledge as effectively as discussions do. Thus, discussion stands out as the best-fit instructional method for audiences that already possess a basic understanding of the subject matter.