A good techique for learning that airlines use, is the use of 'paper tigers'.
In this context a paper tiger is a cockpit mockup, which may be as simple as a poster of the cockpit itself, or more elaborate were the image is mounted on a three dimensional mockup of the actual cockpit itself, sometimes with dummy switches, or in some cases linked to a computer with simulation.
In any case, the pilots sit and practice 'flows', which is the preferred method of completing a checklist were it's first completed by a methodical flow motion, and then checked using the checklist, rather than completing one item at a time.
By practicing flows in front of a poster, or other paper tiger, the pilots develop tactile feel for the checklist, knowing where to look and therefore what comes next - naturally.
Some flight schools use this technique, of course students are keen to be in the real aircraft and at schools students are mostly encouraged to go sit in a free aircraft and practice there without turning the engine on.
Students should consider giving it a go, posters of light aircraft are sold in many pilot stores, and online. Working though a checklist that requires you to actively find the item each time is great practice, and a lot cheaper than loosing time in the aircraft when you're paying for training !
