What teaching strategy is effective for patients with limited literacy?

Allowing patients to demonstrate their understanding is an effective teaching strategy for individuals with limited literacy because it engages them actively in the learning process. This method enables healthcare providers to assess a patient's comprehension and identify any gaps in understanding. By asking patients to show what they have learned or practice a skill, healthcare professionals can tailor their instruction more effectively to fit the patient's needs. This hands-on approach helps build confidence and reinforces learning in a way that is both meaningful and practical for the patient.

In contrast, starting with complex terminology can overwhelm patients, as it may create barriers to understanding. Grouping related content together, while beneficial in some contexts, does not specifically address the literacy challenges of the patients. Using unfamiliar terminology is likely to confuse patients further and hinder effective communication and understanding.