Filmstrip Strengths and Limitations

From SPARK

Unpublished

Summary

This gives strengths and limitations of using filmstrips as a media type.

Filmstrips can be very effective in cultures in which communication is oriented on group discussion.

The slow pace of a filmstrip and the fact that it can have long pauses inserted allows time for viewers to comment on and discuss each picture frame.

It is difficult for people who aren't used to moving pictures to follow the detailed images used in Western productions. The medium of video may interfere with the people understanding the message.

Filmstrips are economical in investment of production time and money. The equipment needed to show filmstrips is also more economical. Overall, it is an economical media for use by local evangelists, portable, and much simpler than what is needed to show videos.

Filmstrips may be translated into languages of people groups that are too small to have a full printed Bible in their own language.

The equipment is very portable, which may be important when dealing with unfriendly crowds.

These filmstrips have generated interest in Bible translation among local Christians. The United Bible Society sponsored a seminar which twelve translation teams from small language groups attended, not one expatriate among them. These groups have only the New Testament in their languages but want the Old Testament also.

Adapted by MKB on 31-Aug-04 from case history from Steven A. Jameson.

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Ronald H. Anderson

Adapted from “Selecting and Developing Media for Instruction”:

Filmstrips, usually shown in a dark room, offer a place free of distractions. Freedom from distractions allows people to concentrate on the story and feel more personal involvement.

Can be used with one person or with a group. [—-start here——]

• Can be used individually or with language groups.

• Provide immediate follow-up as the promoters are present for discussion.
• Can be viewed by the literate and non-literate alike.

• Allow for variable pacing to meet the audience need for comprehension or discussion.

• Can suggest motion and special effects through graphic designs.

• Simple to operate.

• Convenient to transport for use in a variety of locations.

• Can use AC/DC power, batteries, or rechargeable batteries with solar panels.

• Small, for compact packaging and storing.

• Can have a finished professional-quality product for a limited investment of time and funds.

• Can incorporate local culture into visuals.

• Can be part of a media-mix package of printed materials including picture books, group leader’s guides, and translator’s guides.

• Can be combined with audio in a variety of ways (live, tape, disk, computer).

The Disadvantages of Filmstrips

• Need a darkened room.

• Require equipment and power that will need to be maintained.

• Sequence cannot be changed.

• Visual media only; it requires audio or printed text.

• Require professional assistance for final production.