Last Updated: 15 March, 2017
1.0 Introduction
Below is one example of each method of instruction required to be understood and completed by potential instructors attending the DITS (Defence Instructional Techniques) and DTTT (Defence Train the Trainer) courses as part of the Defence model of instruction, or the Army Instructional Techniques (AIT) Course as part of the Army Instructor Capability (AIC) Programme.
- Lesson Plan 01: DITS Theory Lesson Template (Word) (2013)
- Lesson Plan 02: DITS EDIP Lesson Template (Word) (2013)
- Lesson Plan 03: AIT Theory Lesson Template (Word) (2014)
- Lesson Plan 04: AIT EDIP Lesson Template (Word) (2014)
Lesson plans 01 and 03 are predicated on the theory-based method of instruction. The theory method of instruction is used when the transfer of learning is more suited to classroom/information only sessions.
Lesson plans 02 and 04 requires instructors to utilise the EDIP method of instruction. EDIP is Explanation, Demonstration, Imitation and Practice. The EDIP method of instruction is used when the transfer of learning is more suited to practical sessions.
An overview of the DITs course can be found here.
2.0 Army Instructor Capability Programme
The British Army replaced, or rather enhanced, the Defence programme of courses with the Army Instructor Capability (AIC) programme during 2014. The vast majority of Army instructors will complete their instructor training at the Army Recruiting and Training Division’s Staff Leadership School (known as either the ARTD Staff Leadership School or simply ASLS).
The new AIC programme will encompass three core courses:
- The Army Instructional Techniques (AIT) course;
- The Army Instructor Supervisor (AIS) course; and
- The Army Instructional Leader (AIL) course.
As well as changes in the Defence environment, there have also been a number of changes in the civilian environment and a matrix of civilian and military qualifications for comparison can be found here.
The reader is also directed to the Defence Trainer Capability page for up to date information on the new range of Defence courses.
The AIC has now been rebranded as the Army Trainer Capability (ATC) programme in line with MOD policy.
3.0 Associated Documents
DCTS Publication: Defence Instructors Handbook (DCTS, 2006)
This handbook, produced by the Defence Centre of Training Support (DCTS), is aimed at all staff in instructional duties and is divided into five sections:
- Delivery of Training;
- Instructional Methods & Resources;
- Conduct in the Training Environment;
- Welfare/Duty of Care; and
- Defence Code of Practice for Instructors.
Although outdated, the Defence Instructors Handbook is still a very useful guide for both potential and experienced instructors across the military instructional spectrum.
DfES Publication: Equipping Our Teachers for the Future… (DfES, 2004)
This publication provides the rationale behind the need to reform initial teacher training and states (2004, p.5) although military instructors may not be called teachers “anyone with a teaching role needs training that fits that role.”
