Teachers’ Perspectives on Using Modern Audio-Visual Aids to Teach English Literature

Abstract

A twentieth century Chinese philosopher stated that one picture is worth a thousand words (Ashaver and Iguve, 2003). By proving this statement, previous studies have documented that the modern audio visual aides have a significant impact on teaching, bringing a highly productive learning environment for students. Due to its significance, in Sri Lanka, the Ministry of Education has provided audio visual equipment and has conducted training programmes under several projects for government school teachers to exploit them in the teaching process. Yet, most teachers of English Literature have not paid much attention to using modern technology. This study was conducted to explore the teachers’ perspectives on this area. Four teachers who teach English Literature as an optional subject for grade ten students were selected from four government schools; St’ Anthony’s Girls’ College, Hemmamali Girls’ College from Kandy district, and Government Science College and Sirimavo Bandaranaike Modal School from Matale District were selected as the participants of this study. Data was gathered through semi structured interviews and this qualitative data was analysed thematically. The analysis revealed that teaching English Literature using audio-visual aids is partially successful. However, it is not very practical due to the lack of educational facilities within the classrooms, the absence of pedagogical knowledge and skills to teach with digital equipment, the lack of instructional material and organizational conflicts. The findings suggest the need for further teacher training programmes particularly on the effective use of the equipment and for effective instructional material.