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In addition to what Rawntree describes about the functions of pictures, Hamalik 1994 states similar reasons of using pictures in teaching. First, pictures are
concrete. Students can see clearly the item being discussed through a picture. Second, pictures overcome the time and space. For example, the teacher can bring Eiffel tower
to the class through pictures. Third, pictures can overcome the human senses limitations. For example, we can see small materials clearly through a picture. Fourth,
pictures can be used to explain a problem. Fifth, pictures are cheap and are easily gotten. Sixth, pictures are easily used both for individuals or a group of students.
b. Criteria for Good Pictures
To achieve the objectives of learning through pictures, the pictures that are used must be good. There are some requirements that must be fulfilled of good
pictures. Newby 2000 in his book entitled Instructional Technology for Teaching and Learning
states some criterias of good pictures. First, use pictures that can illustrate the ideas. Second, use simple pictures. Third, use harmonious colors.
Trisisca 1999 formulates the criteria of good pictures. They are as follow. 1.
Simple The first consideration in selecting pictures is that the pictures should be
simple. Using complex and too much details pictures may cause confusion for the children. It will be suitable to select simple pictures as far as they can clarify the
explanation.
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2. Having no ambiguity
The sources of pictures are abundant but not all of them can be used in teaching and learning process. Many of them have ambiguity. For example, there is a
picture of a boy who is sitting and holding a book. It is difficult to decide whether the point is studying or reading. Therefore, we have to use pictures that can illustrate the
ideas clearly. 3.
Must be in accordance with the students’ level of proficiency Teachers should be selective in choosing the pictures which is in accordance
to the students’ level of proficiency. If the teachers select the pictures which are difficult and not appropriate with the students characteristic, the students will feel
frustrate and bored in learning. 4.
The size of the pictures depends on the class The purpose of this consideration is to enable each student to see the pictures
clearly. If the students cannot see the pictures clearly, they might misinterpret the pictures and might get bored easily because the pictures do not attract their attention.
5. The pictures must be related to the topic taught
The pictures are used to help the teachers deliver the topic discussion. Therefore, the pictures should be related to the topic discussion in order to avoid
confusion of the students.
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2. Young Learners
