Examining the Effect of Using Short Films on Visual Reading Skills

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of using short films in Turkish lesson on visual reading skills of 7th graders. Mixed methods design was utilized. The quantitative part of the study was formed by an experimental pattern with pretest-post-test control group, and the qualitative part was a case study consisting of observation and interview processes. The participants of the study were 46 7th graders from a public secondary school in Erzurum, Turkey. In the quantitative part of the study, the achievement test was used as a data collection instrument. In the qualitative part, observation and interview forms were used for data collection. Descriptive analysis studies were conducted for pre and post test scores in data analysis. As a result of the analysis of the data obtained from the quantitative and qualitative data collection tools, the use of short films in Turkish lessons increased the students’ interest, participation, success, and sensitivity towards their environment; it was found that it improved the visual reading skills significantly, at a high impact level and permanently. At the end of the research, it was concluded that the use of short films in Turkish lesson was effective in the formation of a fun classroom environment, active participation of students in the lesson, gaining awareness and sensitivity towards their environment, and improving their visual reading skills significantly and permanently.