Which principle of learning often guides the sequence of instructional lectures?

The principle that often guides the sequence of instructional lectures is the principle of primacy. This principle suggests that information presented at the beginning of a learning session is more likely to be remembered than information presented later. It highlights the importance of structuring lectures to introduce fundamental concepts early on, allowing learners to build a strong foundation before delving into more complex or detailed topics.

This approach facilitates better retention and understanding of the material, as learners are likely to connect new information with previously acquired knowledge. Additionally, when foundational topics are prioritized in lectures, students can approach subsequent material with the context and background they need to effectively engage with it, enhancing overall learning outcomes.

While the principle of recency, which focuses on the information presented most recently being remembered better, has its merits, it does not systematically guide the way lectures are organized. The principles of relevance and intensity focus on the applicability of information and the emotional engagement of the learner, respectively, but they do not directly influence the sequence of lectures in the same foundational sense as the principle of primacy.