See and hear : the journal on audio-visual learning (1945)

by Esther Berg New York Public Schools NOW AS NEVER BEFORE there is a need for America to resolve the problems of racial and religious differences. "We have accepted the principle of brotherhood as the basis for the gradual development of democratic idealism. This ideal of brotherhocKl is recognized as one of the very cor- nerstones of community life. Un- less wc check intolerance and devel- op better understanding of the aims and ideals of various groups and na- tions, the term democracy will be- come a mere slogan and the ideals of brotherhood a meaningless term."* To put meaning into the words "democracy," "brotherhood," "equal- ity," the teacher can find no better medium than the film, specifically the film forum. But it is clearly shown that there is a definite "know- how" of a film forum; a film is but a tool and cannot do the job alone no more than a scaljjel alone can perform an operation. Both require skillful handling and direction. In an attempt to show teachers one technique, we arranged a film forum organized around the use of one film on the subject of intergroup relationships. We used the film Bro- therhood of Man**. A panel of four was selected to lead the discussion— an audience of 140 teachers partici- pated in a town meeting, as it were. The group served in a dual capacity —learning the "know-how" of a film forum, and at the same time being part of it. The great value of the film —seeing an idea together—led the group through a common experience which served as common ground for discussion. Before the film showing the audience was alerted to the fol- lowing questions: Is race prejudice still a problem? Why isn't more prog- ress being made in meeting this problem? What can be done to make more progress? After the film was shown, there W3S much active and fruitful discus- sion, unusual audience participation, and the discussion was kept rolling Visual Materials FOR INTERCULTURAL EDUCATION by the leader. Problems of the class- room and of the community were presented. The teacher cognizant ol the "how" is confronted with the "where" and the "which." She nmst give much thought to her selection of films to help establish socially ac- ceptable concepts relating to inter- cultural, interracial, or intergroup relationships among young adults and children. .\s the teacher looks through the following list of films and filmstrips, she will ask herseli the following questions to help her decide what film to use: "Is the film suitable to the intel- lectual and social maturity of my pupils?" "Will the film correct distortions concerning other people?" "Will it teach the pupil to reject stereotypes?" "Will the film stress democratic attitudes, respect for the human per- sonality and the dignity of man, free- dom of worship, brotherhood and equality?" "Will the film increase under- standing between the \arious na- tional, racial and religious groups which makeup America?" With all the materials at our dis- posal we must establish understand- ing among people—one for the other. Only a united people can survive this atomic age. Only a united peo- ple can cope with the problems thai this post-war period presents. Dis- crimination by any group ol .Amer- icans against any other group is a dangerous thing, and litis undeino- (vatic practice must be eliminated. I'o help suggest modern tools of learning which, when brought into our classrooms, will help you create the kind of a social learning envi- ronment we wish, the following list of visual audio materials is pre- sented. SOUND MOTION PICTURES Achimota — 16mni sound, 19 rain.; Cost, $50.00; Rental, |2.00. British Information Services, 360 N. Mich- igan .Avenue, Chicago I, 111. Sr HS, Col, Adult; Teaching, Soc. Studies, Clubs. • During the last generation many educational centers have sprung up throughout the African Gold Coast. One of these colleges was built at Achimota and endowed by the Gov- ernment. The college is co-educa- tional, residential; the staff both Eu- (CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 0) This scene is from the mitstiinding color film "Boundary Lines" "Education for UDity in the Schools of New York Slate." New York University. Albany. 1947. BTolherhood ol Man, 9 niin.. Color. $80. Bran- don Films, 1600 Broadway. New York, N. Y. FEBRUARY • 1948 17