Meritnation.com MD Pavan Chauhan speaks with SHIBAJI ROYCHOUDHURY about the benefits of visual learning
How do visual resources help in organising and grouping of ideasIJ
It helps the child see the concept working in real time. This lets him organise his understanding of the topic in simplified contexts, sharpening his analytical skills. For example, a student who has difficulty in understanding concepts in Physics and Chemistry, will grasp the topics better when he sees the reactions happening right in front of him. This way he does not have to imagine a whole set up. The method is explained step by step in the multimedia lesson in a language that is easy to understand and a voiceover that is friendly and non-intimidating. It also consist of pictures and colours. Flow charts and pictures, brightly coloured key words create an impression in the mind of the child, helping him recall the same coloured segments accurately in the exam or as and when needed.
Does the use of these resources reduce the pressure on the childrenIJ
Yes, watching a video and explaining a tough concept helps take the pressure off the child. At Meritnation we believe that when the child begins to initiate the process of learning, it can be safely assumed that the pressure is off and his learning is going on the right track. Instead of reading about the concept from different books for a simple explanation and then making the effort to visualise the whole process in the mind, a video on the tough concept helps the child observe, grasp and memorise the concept in a better manner.
How important is it to bring teaching through visual resources togetherIJ Can traditional chalk and talk method of teaching co-existIJ
The co-existence of visual resources with the traditional teaching methods is possible. A child needs to be introduced to a topic as creatively as possible to help him develop active interest. Resources like brightly coloured pictures and animated videos breathe a life into a dry concept and can arrest a child’s attention and interest. When the student is initiated into the process of learning with a focussed and guided approach, he begins to develop deeper interest in the subject, making him want to study it not only for the marks at school but also to fill up his curiosity around the topics.
Does the use of visual resources through teaching have the ability to address the problem of shortage of teachersIJ
The shortage of teachers in the country will definitely be addressed through the use of visual study resources. Visual study resources through the Internet have immense potential to transcend geographical boundaries. Students in far flung areas can also access them at any time. Everyone will have access to the same quality of study material bringing about an equality in the standard of learning. Students will have access to material that is focused on supplementing and guiding their knowledge intake towards richer academic fulfillment.
Can this limit high number of school dropouts in rural areasIJ
A large number of students lose interest in studies due to uninteresting ways of introductions to the subjects by teachers. This can be resolved by engaging the student through animated videos and conducting interactive exercises in the class. When the child sees his classmates enthusiastically participating in the learning process, he will overcome his initial hesitation and will be able to join them freely. This, in turn will aid in developing his interest in the subject and create a thirst for gaining more knowledge.
Certain schools feel that visual teaching will disturb the connection between students and teachers.