TAKE-HOME VIDEO FOR ADULT LITERACY

In the past, it has not been possible to ''teach oneself to read'' at home, because learners could not read the books to teach them. Videos and interactive compact discs have changed that situation and challeng e current assumptions of the pedagogy of literacy. This article descri bes an experimental adult literacy project using video technology. The language used is English, but the basic concepts apply to any alphabe tic or syllabic writing system. A half-hour cartoon video can help adu lts and adolescents with learning difficulties. Computer-animated cart oon graphics are attractive to look at, and simplify complex material in a clear, lively way. This video technique is also proving useful fo r distance learners, children, and learners of English as a second lan guage. Methods and principles are to be extended using interactive com pact discs.