A whole-learning approach to teaching a skill is most appropriate for what situation?

A whole-learning approach, which focuses on teaching a skill in its entirety rather than breaking it down into smaller parts, is most appropriate when the risk of a student being injured is low. This approach allows for the seamless integration of skills into real-life contexts, which can enhance retention and transfer of learning. When students are in a safe environment where the possibility of injury is minimal, they can fully engage with complex tasks and develop a more holistic understanding of the skill.

In situations where the skills are complex and difficult, a part-whole learning approach might be more effective, as it allows students to master simpler components before tackling the entire skill. When students are already familiar with the skills, a whole-learning approach may also not be necessary since they may benefit more from refinement and practice of individual aspects of the skill rather than the whole skill itself. If students exhibit high competitiveness, this could potentially introduce pressure that might not lend itself well to learning the skill holistically. Thus, the context of low injury risk clearly supports a whole-learning approach.