Attachment 26 Training Media

DOE-HDBK-1078-94

ATTACHMENT 26

OVERVIEW

Virtually all presentations involve the use of some form of visual aid. Although most lessons can be

made more interesting and effective by incorporating audio-visual aids, probably no part of the

presentation is misused more. Care must be taken to design the lesson and the use of any visual aids to

meet the stated objectives.

EFFECTIVE INSTRUCTOR-TRAINEE COMMUNICATION

The following basic principles of effective instructor-trainee communication should be considered when

choosing audio-visual aids:

First, visuals can increase trainee understanding where words cannot convey all the information.

A sketch, photograph, diagram, or graph can describe relationships more completely than words.

Visuals can also convey the same information faster and more efficiently.

Second, long-term retention of information can be increased by visuals. Seventy-five percent of all

the information stored in the mind comes through the eyes, while 13% of all the information stored

in the mind comes from the sense of hearing. Therefore, using the visual sensory channel helps to

communicate in the way most people are able to learn most easily.

Third, instructors are also helped by designing visual aids. The process of designing visual aids

forces instructors to organize their ideas, and during the presentation the aids assist in keeping their

thoughts organized.

GENERAL AUDIO-VISUAL AID GUIDELINES

Audio-visual aids offer many advantages to the instructor, but there can be many disadvantages if an

audio-visual medium is not used properly. A good presentation should be able to stand alone without visual

aids. The training aid should support the presentation, not be the center of it. Audio-visual aids should

strengthen what is being said, but should not require interpretation. The following general audio-visual

guidelines should be considered when using and selecting audio-visual aids.

Audibility and Visibility

Can everyone in the room comfortably hear and see the aid? (Take into consideration distracting noises

outside the room, the acoustics, lighting, and size of the room.) An aid that cannot be heard or is illegible

or cannot be seen is worse than no aid at all because the audience will become distracted. It is advisable

to rehearse with the visual aid far enough in advance of the presentation to make any necessary changes

needed.

Accessibility or Availability

Plan the use of visual aids around the equipment that will be available where the presentation will be

given. Is it accessible when needed? A model can be an effective aid, but it can distract the audience if it

is left in view throughout the briefing. If a model cannot be placed completely out of sight, keep it covered

in the back of the room or in another room until it is needed. Flip charts can also remain covered until it

is desired to turn the attention of the audience to the charts.

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