What are the types of TLM and its uses? < Back 2024-12-12 By Ampersand Group The widespread adoption of technology in India's education sector has altered how students learn nowadays. Over the past ten or so years, modern technology has been changing the way children are taught and learn. The COVID-19 pandemic, which compelled educational institutions and teachers worldwide to switch to online instruction, further fuelled this. It goes without saying that in order to make learning engaging, educators switched from using chalkboards and in-person instruction to using online courses and visual aids. This use of various teaching and learning resources is called as Teaching Learning Materials (TLMs). It can range from visual and auditory aides to the more conventional materials like books and worksheets. TLMs play a crucial role in the educational process, providing numerous benefits that enhance both teaching and learning. It helps students to learn better and retain topics that are difficult to grasp. For example, workbooks help students to practice what they learn in class through instructional material. In this blog, let’s explore the different types of TLMs and how they help students to interact, engage and understand lessons in a more enhanced manner. What are the types of Teaching Learning Materials and their impact? 1. Visual Materials One of the strongest teaching-learning resources, they appeal to the sense of sight, which plays a significant role in helping students learn. These materials break down complex concepts by presenting information visually, making it easier for learners to grasp and retain ideas. Here’s a list of visual materials which are widely used in schools: a. Charts, diagrams, and graphs b. Posters and pictures c. Flashcards and cue cards d. Videos and animations e. Maps and globes 2. Audio Materials Like visual TLMs, audio materials can also be equally impactful. From songs to audio stories, audio materials can stimulate a child’s imagination and thus make learning interesting. Here are some of the audio teaching materials: a. Recorded lectures or discussions b. Songs or music related to the topic c. Podcasts d. Audio storytelling 3. Audio-Visual Materials A combination of both audio and video learning materials is a winning combination. It helps students get a clear understanding of the concept as well as create an immersive and engaging learning experience. Audio-Visual Materials also improves a child’s recall capacity as it increases retention and interest in the subject matter. Here are some of the most impactful AV materials: a. Documentaries b. Films c. Slideshows with voiceovers d. Educational apps with multimedia 4. Tactile Materials These materials engage the sense of touch and are highly effective. Also known as hands-on materials, they promote active learning as it allows the student to interact physically with the teaching material. This leads to experiential understanding, helping the child’s recall capacity. a. Models (Eg: of the solar system, body organs) b. Manipulatives (Eg: blocks, puzzles, math kits) c. Craft materials for hands-on learning d. Science kits 5. Printed Materials Printed materials also known as instructional or traditional materials, is a foundational teaching learning material. The information present in these materials is often structured and widely accessible. These resources are adaptable and appropriate for students of all ages and academic backgrounds. Here are some examples of printed TLMs below: a. Textbooks and reference books b. Workbooks and practice sheets c. Handouts and pamphlets 6. Digital Resources These TLMs use technology to elevate teaching. For example, a teacher using an online quiz for her students to engage them while conducting her session on Google Classroom. Here are some examples of digital TLMs: a. Educational websites b. Learning management systems c. Online quizzes and interactive tools d. E-books and digital libraries 7. Community and Environment-Based Materials While all of the above TLMs benefit in different ways, environment-based TLM makes learning a fun way for students to grasp real-life concepts. For example, taking students on a trip to the museum will help them get a deeper understanding of their history lessons. Education becomes more dynamic, relevant, and powerful when community and environment-based materials are used to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experiences. Here are some examples of Community and Environment-Based Materials: a. Field trips and excursions b. Guest lectures or resource persons c. Local artefacts and cultural items Conclusion Overall, TLMs are powerful tools in the hands of educators who can use it to cater to a diverse set of students who have different learning styles and needs. As mentioned above, TLMs can be categorised into visual, audio, audio-visual, tactile, printed, digital, and community or environment-based resources. While each TLM has its unique strength, they contribute to the delivery of holistic education by making learning engaging, comprehensive and effective. One of the key advantages of TLMs is that it allows for self-paced learning by letting students go over and practice content on their own. It also creates an interactive learning environment that captures students' attention and sustains their interest. Regardless of a learner's preferred method—visual, aural, or kinaesthetic—TLMs offer customised techniques to make teaching efficient and inclusive. Apart from using each TLM, educators can also integrate a mix of TLMs into their teaching to promote critical thinking. All things considered, TLMs are crucial for developing dynamic, captivating, and influential learning opportunities for students of all age groups. To know more in the education and skill development sectors, visit Ampersand Group. Frequently Asked Questions Q1. What is the usage of the TLM? TLM, or Teaching-Learning Material, enhances the learning experience by increasing engagement and interest amongst students while simplifying complex concepts and encouraging active learning. It also promotes curiosity and creativity while catering to a diverse set of learners. Q2. What are the principles of TLM? These principles represent key aspects of effectively using and creating Teaching-Learning Materials (TLM) in the educational process. These are the following principles of TLM: a. Principle of Selection b. Principle of Preparation c. Principle of Proper presentation d. Principle of Response e. Principle of Control Q3. What is utilization of TLM? TLM's primary objective is to improve the educational process by giving students a variety of resources that aid in information comprehension, retention, and application.