Definition
A practice phase in the demonstration-performance teaching method in which the learner explains each step of a procedure aloud while simultaneously performing it, with the instructor observing, correcting errors, and confirming that the learner understands what they are doing and why.
Plain English
The student does the task and talks through it at the same time, while the instructor watches, listens, and corrects as needed. It proves the student understands the steps, not just remembers them.
Context Anchor
You will see this in flight instruction when a learner practices a maneuver, checklist item, radio call, or cockpit procedure under instructor supervision.
Why Pilots Care
This step is where real understanding is tested. A learner who can do the action but cannot explain it usually has gaps that will surface later under workload or stress. Catching those gaps in training is far safer than catching them in flight.
Intuition Check
Do not read this as “the learner talks first, then does the task later.” In this FAA teaching step, the learner explains the task while performing it.
Example Sentence 1
During the Learner Tells—Learner Does phase, the student flew the traffic pattern while explaining each power, pitch, and configuration change to the instructor.
Example Sentence 2
Applying Learner Tells—Learner Does during the lesson let the student confirm understanding of the go-around procedure before executing it.