That technique is a variation of what I've been doing for many years. The difference is, among several things, including putting them under the hood, is I don't use the buddy-box at all. Yes, you are correct that there will always be a improvement in the beginner's flying. If instructors opened their minds a bit, THERE IS ALWAYS ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT as far as giving RC flight instrution goes. It's sort of sad that too many instructors seem to be stuck with old school thinking.
CCR
ORIGINAL: bkdavy
Rather than have them take their eyes off the plane, the technique I find most helpful is to have them put down the buddy box, stand next to me, and have them put their thumbs on top of mine. While we both watch the plane, I put it through the desired maneuvers. This allows them to see the plane's reaction and feel the size and duration of the stick movements. After a couple minutes, back on the buddy box, and they tend to be much smoother.
Brad