What allows instructors to reliably infer that learning has taken place?

The correct answer centers on the concept of "permanent results in experience and practice". This refers to the lasting changes in a learner's abilities, skills, or knowledge that occur as a result of effective training and practice. When instructors observe that students can consistently apply what they’ve learned over time, it indicates that the learning process has been successful.

Learning is not just about short-term gains or temporary understanding; true learning is reflected in an individual's ability to perform tasks or demonstrate knowledge autonomously and consistently. When these results are evident in real-world scenarios or in practice, it confirms that the knowledge gained is not fleeting but has been internalized and retained.

This aligns closely with the goals of teaching and training, where the aim is to produce sustainable improvements in learners. In contrast, temporary motivation, forced practice sessions, and comparative assessment scores might not adequately demonstrate that a student has truly learned something. While they can be indicators of potential learning, they do not guarantee that the knowledge or skills will be retained or applied effectively outside of a controlled environment.