Abstract
M.Ed.
The underlying reason for this study was to establish the role that media and communication may play in the solution of the problem of visual illiteracy. The object of this study was basically to indicate that with the use of proper communication
and appropriate media, visual illiteracy may be eliminated. Chapter One sets out the aims of the study,- clarifies some of the relevant terminology, states the problems within Geography at secondary level and indicates the frame of reference for this study.
Chapter Two concentrates on the didactic perspective with specific reference to the didactic triangle. Factors which influence the didactic situation, were discussed.
Chapter Three mainly concerns media with its diversity of attributes. The common functions of media; media and symbol systems; the development of cognitive skills; the
content of cognitive skills; the interaction between symbol systems and cognitive processes, different kinds of media and deterrents to media usage are discussed.
Chapter Four comprises a discussion of the didactic situation, and its principles; the aim of education; theories of conveying content; the classroom as didactic space; communication within the didactic situation; the focus and context principle; functionalizing; the dimensions of comprehension; the improvement of skills and symbols of cartography. Different kinds of media for teaching Geography at secondary level are also suggested. It furthermore reflects the conclusion of the study; states recommendations and suggests possible fields of study. The conclusions reached in this study are the following: 1. A prerequisite for attaining pre-knowledge is mastering
the cognitive skills which depend on isomorphic symbols, elements, codes, concepts and constructs of media; 2. Salomon refers to the schemata of the pupil. The author
would like to state that this is meant in the singular form. Closer to reality, one would find that within one universal schemata, several sub-schematas would have to
exist. 3. All the aforesaid cannot be possible without the pupil reaching visual literacy, which starts at birth. Any further development depends on factors such as the socioeconomic setting in which the pupil was raised; the level of cognitive stimuli the pupil received and various others. 4. Media and communication plays a pivotal role in the development of visual literacy. The following recommendations may be made:
1. It is recommended that TV viewing by the pupil in the secondary phase should be limited because of the fact that the pupil does not get adequate practise in developing his semantic skills while watching the icons on TV and negating the digital symbols.
2. Educators should plan their lessons in such a way that the pupil is able to move from known facts to the unknown, also known as the inductive to deductive method. By doing
so, it would be much easier for the pupil to internalize the facts and knowledge conveyed to him. 3. Educators should furthermore lead the pupil in perceptual
discrimination in such a way that this process becomes an automatism.