This study is concerned with a consideration of certain Audio Visual aids and their practical application in school in the teaching of reading. Emphasis is placed on the Primary Sector and experimentation is carried out amongst children aged 4+ to 7+ years.
Following a discussion of relevant literature and psychology related to the use of Audio Visual aids, the study is divided into two separate and yet related sections:
a) audio visual aids and the child
b) audio visual aids and the teacher
In the first instance a series of experiments is carried out amongst young children using Language Master and tape Recorder to assess their reading attainment as compared with that of children receiving traditional teacher instruction. Results are analysed and suggestions made for future research.
In the second part of the study consideration is made of the role of the teacher in the use of audio visual aids. Following an introduction outlining "accepted" theories about the use of audio visual aids and the role of the teacher, the study concerns itself with the analysis of teachers' opinions as received in the completion of a thirteen part questionnaire. Teachers are asked to express an opinion on the use of certain audio visual aids in the teaching of reading end their replies are analysed according to six variables of sex, age, age range taught, experience, training course and qualifications. Teachers are asked for their own comments which are included along with conclusions drawn from the results of the study.
A conclusion is made on the findings of the study and suggestions made for future research along the lines of a comparative media study
