3-21. ACTUAL EQUIPMENT AND MODELS
The most realistic training device is the actual equipment. The instructor must
consider the size of the class when planning to use many pieces of equipment. If there
is a procedure to be shown using the equipment, all of the students must be able to see.
For this reason, a larger model or a training film may show the procedure better. For
instance, infusion equipment and the procedure for using it will probably show up better,
for a large class, in a film or on slides. The use of something as large as a blackboard
can be seen easily by a class of forty students. Models are usually three-dimensional
representations of the real thing, but with some details removed. Examples are a
skeleton, an animated model of blood circulation, or a model of a vital organ placement.
These are useful when the real thing is not available or impractical to use.
3-22. GRAPHICS
Still visuals are most frequently called graphics. These include charts, diagrams,
sketches, cartoons, maps, or 35 mm slides. These also include pictures shown on the
opaque projector, but these will be treated separately.
a. Some Types. Frequently a line drawing will be preferable to a picture.
Pictures often include too much extraneous detail. Cartoons that encourage laughter
have been shown to be less effective than the same material presented in another
manner. Color adds interest to graphics. Sometimes color is necessary for
understanding. An example would be a drawing of the venous and arterial systems.
The venous system is usual shown in blue while the arterial system is shown in red.
b. Slides. Slides, another type of graphic, are quite effective and inexpensive to
use. Commercially produced slides are frequently available or pictures can be taken by
the instructor from books, magazines, etc. (obtain copyright release). It is often wise to
show slides of a procedure that will subsequently be practiced by the students.
3-23. VENETIAN BLIND DEVICE
The Venetian blind device is an effective training aid when used for an outline or
for the steps of a procedure.
a. Specifics. The lettering on the Venetian blind strips should be neat,
attractive, and orderly. Use capital letters that are large enough for all to see and read.
This aid may not be suitable for a very large class. The items should be exposed one at
a time. Each item should be discussed thoroughly before the next item is exposed.
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