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
Brad,
Your post just reminded me of an idea I had a few years ago. What if someone took an old transmitter, removed all the electronics from it, installed 4 micro servos, a receiver and battery pack. The servos would be installed such that they move the sticks in unison with the live transmitter. The student simply holds the TX and lightly rest his thumbs on the sticks while watching the plane flying around. This would allow him/her to feel first hand what movements are required for specific maneuvers. If I were an instructor, I'd probably do this just to try it out and see how it works.
Erik