How should an instructor help a learner who is discouraged due to slow progress?

Assigning subgoals that can be attained more easily than normal goals is an effective strategy to support a learner who feels discouraged due to slow progress. This approach breaks down larger, often daunting goals into smaller, manageable tasks that provide a greater sense of achievement more frequently. Celebrating these small victories can motivate the learner, build their confidence, and encourage them to persist in their training. By focusing on achievable milestones, the instructor helps shift the learner's mindset from frustration to progress, making the overall learning experience more positive and successful.

Setting subgoals also allows for immediate feedback on performance, which is crucial for reinforcing learning and demonstrating improvements. It gives the learner a clear pathway forward while fostering resilience and persistence in overcoming challenges.