Use of Audio-Visual Teaching Learning Materials in Facilitating of Health Education in Early Childhood Development Centers, Pokhara, Nepal

Abstract

Early Childhood Development (ECD); is a crucial period for nurturing the physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and linguistic growth of children aged three to eight.  The study aims to assess the factors influencing the use of audio-visual teaching and learning materials in facilitating health education in the ECD centersin Pokhara, Nepal. The research utilized a quantitative, cross-sectional research design. Data were collected using face-to-face interviews with 486 respondents from 33 selected ECD centers. The participants were randomly selected using proportionate sampling from each selected ECD center. The descriptive analysis employed for univariate and bivariate analyses using Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS) 25 version. Variables such as school type, facilitator qualification, management of learning materials, availability of potable water and sanitation facilities, learning corner condition, and classroom decoration were significantly associated with using audio-visual aids, p<0.001. Additionally, school building,, classroom conditions, and proper sitting arrangement were also found to be significant with audio-visual aids, p<0.01. Association was further observed between the use of other materials and audio-visual aids, p<0.05. The study highlights that enhancing infrastructure, providing adequate learning tools, and improving facilitator training are essential for optimizing health education through audio-visual aids. This improvement contributes to a more engaging and effective learning environment, fostering holistic child development and aligning with national educational policies and global educational goals.