What level of the psychomotor domain is demonstrated when a student practices placing a c-collar after observing an instructor?

The correct answer is Imitation, as this level of the psychomotor domain involves a learner observing a skill being performed and then attempting to reproduce that skill themselves. When a student practices placing a c-collar after observing an instructor, they are taking the first steps to internalizing the skill by mimicking the instructor's actions.

Imitation is fundamental in skill acquisition, particularly in a hands-on field like medical training, where visual learning is integral to mastering practical techniques. This stage serves as a foundation for further development; once the student imitates the action successfully, they can advance to more complex stages of the psychomotor domain that involve refining, combining, or personalizing the skill.

The other options represent different levels or aspects of learning. Manipulation involves executing a skill after practicing it independently, which suggests a progression beyond simple imitation. Knowledge refers to understanding concepts or theory rather than hands-on skills. Articulation involves coordinating multiple skills and can be seen as a more advanced level of mastery. Thus, the context of simply observing and then practicing aligns most closely with the concept of imitation in the psychomotor domain.