Techniques of Efficient Reading.

To help students develop techniques which lead to maximum reading efficiency, it is first necessary to help them develop a positive self-image. Growing evidence is focusing attention on self-image as the crucial determiner of progress. Poor progess in reading at the elementary level leads to poor self-image, which in turn hinders the student in work at the secondary and college levels. Studies of students in college-level reading classes show that students with a high self-image read significantly faster than students with a below-average self-image and that teaching students techniques of reading efficiency helps them to develop a positive self-image. Along with helping students improve their self-image, teachers must help them see the role played by each technique for reading efficiency and must help them understand the interrelationships of the techniques. Through Active Self Discoveries, students explore their reading speed and rate of comprehension while engaged in such techniques as prereading, skimming, surveying, and study-type reading. Vocabulary development centered on context and derivation is also an important part of a course in reading efficiency. Finally, Visual Expeditors, including the tachistoscope, TV units, and slides, help students develop perceptual skills. (GW)