The Multifaceted Advantages of the Use of Videotape as an Adjunct to Field Trips.

This paper considers the advantages offered by a carefully structured use of videotape as an adjunct to field trips. Improvements in the following areas are discussed: preservation of experience as a prelude to development of language; psychological aspects (greater self-esteem and improved self-image); first-hand knowledge of different careers; temporal sequencing skills; auditory training (through the use of meaningful, experience-based stimuli); communication with an audience (as the children act as "presenters" of their own videotapes); implementation of various goals outlined in the IEP; familiarity with (and increased facility in) operation of videotape equipment; comprehension of new ideas and concepts (e.g., exchange program with another school); and motivation (the method is highly stimulating, even to children who are otherwise apathetic about their schoolwork).