The Educational screen (c1922-c1956])

Edgar Dale's exceptional ability to express complex ideas in clear, non-complicated terms is again demonstrated in the opening article on the meaning of communications. His thesis clearly points to a mutuality of goals, problems and research opportunities in the communications and audio-visual fields. A further identity of this interest is illustrated in Andries Deinum's well-written discussion on the Farmington Cinema Collection and the systematic coverage being developed at the University of Southern California of published materials from all over the world on the film in all its aspects. A searching analysis of "Professionalizing the AudioVisual Field" is Dr. James Finn's contribution to the opening issue of the new journal. Finn bases his analysis on six characteristics of a profession, points up the strengths and the more numerous deficiencies of the audiovisual field, and in so doing provides constructive suggestions for needed improvement. Rounding oUt the issue are three articles on research. Of particular interest are the possible implications on perceptual learning of the Hanover Institute demonstrations as described by Dr. Kenneth Norberg. He points out that there may be less difference than has been commonly assumed in the thought processes involved in visual and verbal methods of presentation; also in their relative concreteness or abstractness. Charles Hoban's study of determinants of audience reaction to a training film likewise points to several lines of promising research. In an attempt to account for unanticipated trends in reaction to an Army training film. Dr. Hoban postulates that differences in audience reactions to instructional films appear to be related more to audience aspirations than to present status and to the relative valuation placed upon achievement of those aspirations. He emphasizes the possibilities for further research in this area and the possible implications for dramatized instructional film production. Much has been heard of the Instructional Film Research Program at Pennsylvania State College during the past four years. Dr. C. R. Carpenter, Director of the Program, gives a succinct description of its objectives and procedures and explains, with illustrations, eight of the theoretical hypotheses upon which the program of experimentation is based. This article will be of particular interest to those readers engaged in or contemplating research programs on instructional films and educational television. The Book Reviews and Research Abstracts sections of the new journal are also to be commended as a much needed source of current and objective information on these materials. On the basis of the first issue, the quality and worthwhileness of the Audio-Visual Communication Review are sufficiently evident to merit its wide support among professional educators generally as well as those interested directly in the audio-visual and communications fields. — CFS DISPLAY FOR LEARNING by Marjorie East. Edited by Edgar Dale. The Dryden Press, New York. 1952. 306 pages. S3.00. This book was created for the express purpose of helping teachers make and use visual materials. The basic approach effectively promotes the ideas that satisfactory instructional items do not require large expenditures and that artistic ability is secondary to the teacher's sincere desire to help children learn. The many illustrations, examples, and how-to-do-it suggestions serve as strong motivation for action and invention. Understanding of classroom problems is clearly reflected in the adequate coverage of such areas as duplicating processes, use of the chalkboard, preparation of posters and charts, and planning exhibits and in the listing of valuable sources of materials. This is an important addition to any educator's library. — Philip Lewis, Chairman, Dept. of Education Chicago Teachers College Instructional Films from Heredity in Animals (Better Breed) Explanation of Mendel's Laws of Heredity. How inherited characteristics pass from parent to child. Functions of the Body (Organization of the Body) Shows inter-dependence of body systems: excretory, muscular, nervous, others. Nitrogen Cycle Route of nitrogen in its circulation between atmosphere and living organisms. Nodules, fungi, bacteria shown. Respiration Distribution of oxygen through circulatory system and release of energy. Internal and external functions seen. Wordsworth Country Pastoral film of English Lake District as background study of Wm. and Mary Wordsworth, Coleridge, Southey, How Television Works Step-by-step explanation of transmission of televised image. Simple and accurate coverage. Free Teachers' Guide. The Promise Story of the Holy Spirit, what it is and how it is obtained. Powerful film personally produced by J. Arthur Rank. C/or injortnallon on Ihese ana olner lOmin jilmx ic,lh> Dept. ESS, United World Films, Inc. 1445 Park Ave., New York 29, N. Y. "FIBBRBILV CASK •THEY LAST INDEFINITELY" Equipped with steal corners, steel card holder and heavy web straps. Only original Fiberbiit Cases bear this TRADE MARK "Xour 4ssuronce of Fineif QuoIHy" SOLD BY ALL LEADING DEALERS For l*min Film — 400' to 2000' Reels May, 1953 Writing for more Information? Mention EDUCATIONAL SCREEN. Z15