Basic Procedure For Effective Teaching

This procedure is suitable for all kinds of situations, though I've written it with teaching algorithms in mind. It addresses the needs of both visual spacial learners (by connecting to previous knowledge) and auditorial sequential learners (by repeating). There are three steps to follow, preferably in the prescribed order. I'll explain why later. Here are the steps:

1. What

What's coming up? The teacher gives a outline of what is to come. This can include definitions, an overview, what to expect, or anything relevant.
  i.e. You are going to do the laundry when I'm out.

2. How

How's it done? This is the actual teaching part itself. The material is presented in a way the teacher deems suitable for the learner.
  i.e Separate whites and colours.

3. Why

Why's it done like this? This is a very important step. The aim is to explain the material using concepts already familiar to the learner. It connects the new found knowledge to something already fully grasped, and thus strengthens it.
  i.e. Some colour dyes stain things - like how sweets stain your tongue.

I've noticed that the third step is largely none existent in school education (especially at higher up levels). They leave it to the students to make connections...big mistake. Under all the exam pressure and time pressure and parent pressure, surely priority should go to keeping the stuff inside your head?! I wouldn't be surprised if the majority of such connections made are mnemonic devices. Right after the Big Exam, they're gone with the wind...

Education should not merely be about memorising information!

So now you know the importance of the third step. But why put it last? I reckoned that since the second step is the most crucial part, it would make sense to reinforce it right away. The second step provides the things to connect previous knowledge.

Disclaimer: this method is entirely a creation of my musings, and does not come with a pedigree whatsoever.