I must agree that whatever the size or operation of aeroplane, a checklist is an essential tool to safe operation.
I have said before on this forum and I will say it again, I refuse to fly with anybody who do not use a checklist. Thinking that all can be memorized is a surefire way to make mistakes. And as we all know in this business mistakes are what kills.
Sure, students should know the essential of the checklist. But memorizing is going to lead to disaster.