This explainer provides an introduction to explicit instruction, with a focus on explaining how it contributes to positive outcomes for students’ learning achievement and dispositions. Related explainers introduce the role of knowledge in the learning process and the importance of managing cognitive load, which also provide insights into important evidence with implications for effective teaching practices and related policies.

Explicit instruction is a systematic, engaging and success-oriented teaching approach. It involves fully explaining and effectively demonstrating what students need to learn. This approach to instruction accords with what we know about the learning process, and empirical evidence on the most effective teaching. Learning new information happens most effectively and efficiently when teaching is clear, systematic and does not leave students to construct or discover knowledge and skills without guidance.