Information and Communication Technology

7.2.1 Cone of Experience

The Cone of Experience devised by Edgar Dale represented here is not meant to be a flawless picture. It merely represents the inter-relationship of the various types of audio-visual materials. The bands of the cone are not rigid, inflexible divisions, as there are considerable overlapping and blending. It can be regarded as a visual metaphor in which the various audio-visual materials appear in order of increasing abstraction as one proceeds from direct experience.

Abstract	Verbal symbols	Designations which have no resemblance to ideas or objects for which they stand. For example, the symbol H2S does not smell like the materials it symbolises.
	Visual symbols	Graphs, maps, charts, and sign. Visual symbols are abstract representation but can clarify speech and understanding.
Observing	Radio, recordings, still pictures	Generally considered as one dimensional aids but with the advantage of magnification.
	Motion pictures, television, video	May include sound, colour, etc. It can compress time and space. However, it is seen by a passive spectator, without the senses of touch, smell or feeling.
	Exhibits	Displays, bulletin boards and may even include a motion picture or demonstration. A true exhibit is something one sees as a spectator.
	Field trips	Foe example, visits to an aquaculture farm. It the participants discuss matters with the farm operator, then the trip gains in directness.
	Demonstrations	For example, extension workers demonstrating the operation of a type of fishing gear. The participants are able to see how things are done.
Doing	Dramatic participation	Getting as close as possible to things which cannot be experienced at first hand.
	Contrived experience	A simplified model or a cutaway showing how an intricate mechanism works. A contrived experience is editing of reality which makes the reality easier to grasp.
	Direct, purposeful experience	Performing a laboratory experiment. It is learning by direct participation with responsibility for the outcome.