Use of Visual Aids as a Communication Channel in the Field of Learning in Secondary Schools

Résumé

Visual learning aids that involve the use of photographs, drawings or interactive video are typically intended to promote learning and have a positive impact on learning for the students. Visual aids have become the very instrument in effective academic learning in the modern century.  It is pertinent to understand and know the psychological manifestations of the use of visual aids in imparting knowledge in the children especially those in the formative stage; the secondary school students. However, this study, sought to investigate the use of visual aids as a communication channel in the field of learning in secondary schools. The quantitative approach was used on a multi-stage sampling of the population. The population was composed of all students of Emmanuel Anglican Secondary School and Union Secondary School, Awkunanaw. The paper was anchored on Gestalt and Constructivism theories.  Findings from the study show that majority of the respondents are aware of visual aids in teaching and are in support of the use of visual aids for teaching in secondary schools. Also findings from the study indicated  that majority of the respondents affirmed the use of power points slides in class rooms while teaching although other visual aids were revealed such as mnemonics, audio or video clips, and use of mind pictures/mind maps as it enable them to retain what they have learnt in their long term memory. The recommendations suggest that Teachers should make greater and more consistent use of appropriate visual aids such as charts, diagrams, pictures, maps, models, posters, videos, and PowerPoint presentations during classroom instruction and proprietors and school management should provide adequate and functional visual aid facilities.