What would help a teacher determine the starting point for on-course instruction with an experienced student?

Determining the starting point for on-course instruction with an experienced student is best achieved by focusing on developing missing skills and addressing specific areas for improvement. This approach allows the teacher to identify what the student may lack in terms of skills and understanding, even if they have prior experience. By assessing the student’s current abilities, the instructor can tailor instruction to bridge those gaps effectively.

Skills competition might not provide a comprehensive understanding of the student’s weaknesses or areas needing development, as it often focuses on immediate performance rather than a holistic evaluation of skills. Relying solely on a standard curriculum can overlook the unique needs of the experienced student, who may already possess foundational knowledge but require advanced insight or refinement in certain areas. Moreover, offering beginner lessons to someone who is already experienced would not be suitable, as it would not address their specific level of understanding or expertise, potentially leading to disengagement.

In conclusion, focusing on developing missing skills allows for a more personalized and effective teaching method, enabling the instructor to enhance the student’s existing knowledge while emphasizing areas that need improvement.