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1. "A car will leave from somewhere, for elsewhere soon"
2. "A car will leave from Madras for Madurai today".
3. "A non-stop car will leave from Madras Central Bus stand for Madurai at 10.30 AM. Today".

1. Reduces uncertainity or disorganisation
2. Regulate the level of social tension .
3. "Temperature controlling Agent" Raise social aspiration. 4. Fill the gap in knowledge and create awareness
4. Inspire people to move.

1. Identifying the communication needs to plan IEC activities
2. Training Health Functionaries
3. Training of Community leaders/Volunteers
4. Training of Mothers(M.S.S.)
5. Training and working with TBA, Indigenous Medical Practitioners. Involvement of Health related sector personnel - A WW,CNW, Teachers Gramasevaks, Animators and postmasters.
6. Use of Satisfied adopters
7. Involvement of NGO's
8. Adopting Social Marketing Technique
9. Effective use of Mass Media for back-up (Cable TV, Folk Media) Strengthening inter personal communication and
10. Follow-up of the programme.

1. Group Approach
2. Individual Approach

1. Increase the reach of services by making visits of workers and supervisors more predictable and regular;
   
   
2. lmprove quality of services through knowledge and skill development of workers;
   
   
3. Make supervision more oriented towards problem solving;
   
   
4. Link supervision with training at various levels;
   
   
5. Concentrate on local field problems, both for development training materials and their uses;
   
   
6. Combine interpersonal communication strategy with mass media approach;
   
   
7. Streamline supply systems to meet the local needs of health and family welfare units; 8. Establish relationship between various levels and elements of the system and 9. Improve performance levels through continuous interaction with village community volunteers.

1. Decide the objectives:
   
   Decide what we want to accomplish. Is it to provide information or provide skill?
2. Outline the subject matter according to audience:
   
   The subject matter should be as short as possible, so as to fix and hold the attention of the people. The letters and designs should be bold and big enough to be seen from a distance.
   
   The message consists of what we actually want to communicate including the actual appeals, words, picture and sounds. If the advice presented is simple, clear relevant appropriate, acceptable and put across is in an understandable way it will have a wider reach.
   
   Key message should have the following characteristics.
   
   
   1. Simple
   2. clear,
   3. need-based and relevant,
   4. objective and unbiased,
   5. provide options,
   6. consistent accurate,
   7. positive,
   8. linked to service delivery and lead to action
3. Visualize the key points and Decide the aid For diabetic retinopathy if the key points are:
   
   
   1. Diabetic retinopathy is often symptomless until the last stage.
   2. If you have diabetes, get a dilated eye examination every year.
   3. Early detection and timely treatment may prevent vision loss.
   4. Duration of diabetes is more important than control of blood sugar
   5. Diabetes affects heart, eye, kidney, brain and limbs.
4. Based on resources available, collect necessary materials including collect materials like master paper, ink, brush, pencil, transparency, card board etc.
5. Plan the work
6. Prepare the specific aid When you prepare the aids, provide reality of life situation.
7. Pre test
   1. Assess the potential effectiveness of the aids.
   2. Study how far the material influence
      Attention
      Interest
      Understanding
   3. Identify characteristics and features of materials
      Promote effectiveness
      Barriers
8. Make changes if necessary
9. Based on the pre testing necessary changes may be made. Produce the original

• GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF MESSAGES FOR PREVENTION OF BLINDNESS
  
  Abstract:
  This article provides information on the guidelines to be followed in generating a messgaes and the approach to the community required to make it successful.
  Source:
  Mr. K. Kaliaperumal, IEC Expert - Aravind Eye Care System.
  
  
• DIABETIC RETINOPATHY KNOWLEDGE,ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE STUDY PROTOCOL
  
  Abstract:
  KAP Study tells us what people know about certain things, how they feel and also how they behave. The three topics that a KAP study measures are Knowledge, Attitude and Practice. Understanding the levels of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice will allow for a more efficient process of awareness creation as it will allow the program to be tailored more appropriately to the needs of the community.
  Source:
  Mr. K. Kaliaperumal, IEC Expert - Aravind Eye Care System.
  
  
• GUIDELINE FOR CONDUCTING A KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE(KAP) STUDY
  
  Abstract:
  This article provides information on the guidelines to be followed in conducting KAP study with details on the method and steps of preparing KAP questionnaires.
  Source:
  Mr. K. Kaliaperumal, IEC Expert - Aravind Eye care System.
  
  
• PRETEST COMMUNICATION MATERIALS
  
  Abstract:
  This article focuses on various issues of pre testing like what, why, how, where and with whom to pre test the Health education materials.
  
  

Individual:

Group:

Mass:

• SOME COMMON COMMUNICATION AIDS
  Abstract:
  This article teaches you in greater detail about certain commonly used and versatile communication aids like posters, charts, pull chart, flip chart etc.
  Source:
  P. Krishnamurthy, C. Premanandh - Dhan Foundation.
  
  
• LECTURE
  Abstract:
  It is a careful presentation of facts with organized thoughts and ideas by a qualified person. In it, the lecturer tries to highlight some points for want of time.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• GROUP DISCUSSION
  
  
  
  Abstract:
  It is a very old method and was prevalent in all societies. This technique may be defined as face-to-face mutual interchange of ideas and opinions between members of a relatively small group (usually five to twenty). It is more than the random, unstructured conversation which occurs whenever small groups congregate. It has method and structure, but it can still be informal and democratic in every sense. The occurrence of a small group discussion implies a common concern regarding a desire for information, a problem to be solved, or a decision to be made.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• THE PANEL
  Abstract:
  A group of four or more persons who have special knowledge of the topic sit at a table in front of the audience and hold an orderly and logical conversation on the assigned topic.
  
  1. The panel sets up an audience (the panel) within an audience (the listening members) and fuses the two groups into a single reflective unit.
  2. The panel members discuss the problem.
  3. After thirty or forty minutes, the chairman restates the ideas of the panel and opens discussion to all for spontaneous questioning and brief comment for twenty to thirty minutes.
  4. The Chairman interprets the collective sense of the panel and audience and adjourns the conference.
  
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• SEMINAR
  
  
  Abstract:
  A group of persons gathered for the purpose of studying a subject under the leadership of an expert or learned person. They are normally identified with learning institutions. The participants bring with them a background of training and experience in the area.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• WORKSHOP
  Abstract:
  A workshop means work. It is a meeting of people who work together in small groups, usually upon problems which they derive themselves. Usually it is a group of twelve or more persons with a common interest or problem, usually professional or vocational who meet together for an extended period of time to improve their individual proficiency, ability, or understanding, by study, research, discussion and securing information from specialists.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• ROLE PLAYING
  Abstract:
  The role playing technique is the spontaneous unrehearsed acting out of a situation by a group by selected members of a group.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• PUBLIC MEETING
  Abstract:
  It is broadly a meeting of heterogeneous participants where in certain information is passed on for consideration and future action.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• SYMPOSIUM
  Abstract:
  A symposium is a series of speeches with usually two to five experts, under the direction of a chairman given on as many aspects of a problem is there are speakers present.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• BRAIN STORMING
  Abstract:
  Brain storming is a type of small group interaction designed to encourage the free introduction of ideas on a restricted basis and without any limitations as to feasibility. Participants are encouraged to list for a period of time all the ideas that come to their minds regarding some problem and are asked not to judge these ideas during the session. Judgment of the ideas will come at a later period in which all contributions will be sorted, evaluated and perhaps later adopted.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• CONFERENCE
  Abstract:
  A group usually composed of two to fifty persons representing several organizations, departments, or points of view within an organization, meet together exhibit a common interest and present two or more sides of their problems. They gather information and discuss mutual problems with a reasonable solution as the desirable end. The various phases of the problem may be presented by co-operative or hostile groups.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• HUDDLE METHOD
  Abstract:
  It is a method whereby a large group is divided into small groups of five to ten to discuss a specific problem for a limited time.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• SIMULATION
  Abstract:
  In popular usage, simulation connotes an assumption of something without having its reality. A dictionary of scientific terms defines simulation as the assumption of features or structures intended to deceive enemies, as forms of leaf and stick insects, and all varieties of protective colour action. in social sciences however, simulation is used as a method to study social or psychological phenomena and is devoid of the connotation of deception.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• CASE STUDY
  Abstract:
  Case study is a method where the investigator undertakes through study of all the interrelations and interactions of several variables and finally comes to an understanding of the situation. The unit for investigation and analysis could be individuals, families, culture, groups, communitys decision and situations. The objectives of the study are
  
  
  1. To gather detailed information about the unit under study and
  2. To determine factors accounting for complete behavior pattern of the unit to its surrounding milieu.
  
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• CAMPAIGN
  Abstract:
  A campaign is an intensive teaching activity undertaken at an opportune moment for a brief period, focussing attention in a concerted manner towards a particular problem so as to stimulate the widest possible interest in the community. Campaign methods can be used only after an advocated practice is found acceptable to the local people through method or result demonstrations or other extension methods.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• COLLOQUY
  Abstract:
  A Colloquy is an informal method of discourse which is a modified form of the panel, using one group of three to four Persons from the audience and another group of three to four resources persons or experts on the subject to be considered. The panel members elected from the audience present the problem and the experts comment on various aspects of it. The general audience and panel members participate whenever they so desire under the guidance of a moderator.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• THE DIALOGUE
  Abstract:
  A discussion carried on in front of a group by two knowledgeable people capable of thoughtful communicative discourse on a specific subject is called a dialogue. It is less formal than a lecture or a panel discussion and has many unique dynamics of its own.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• FORUM
  Abstract:
  The term forum applies either to the technique used in a single meeting or to the institution as it operates in a community through a season. Its essence is social exchange or sharing of ideas.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• COMMITTEE
  Abstract:
  
  1. The committee is a body of men and /or women, charged with specific duties to be carried out in accordance with a common plan.
  2. It is a working organization, not a debating body.
  3. It is a working organization, not a debating body.
  4. It is composed of a group of persons who have specialized capabilities equal to the responsibilities given to them, and meeting from time to time to exercise their abilities and functions in co-operative action.
  
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• CONDUCTED TOURS
  Abstract:
  It is a method by which a group gets together for the purpose of seeing an improved performance or result of a practice in actual situations. This requires the group move out of the area for a considerable period with a definite Programme.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  
• ROUND TABLE
  Abstract:
  A very effective modification of the interview is the round table. It consists of an interview with three or four speakers who present a more or less informed debate. No formal script is used, but the participants speak from notes which have been previously discussed. Since there is no audience participation, the round table is admirably adopted to radio. It is not strictly a discussion method but more of a debate.
  Source:
  M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
  
  

1. Create awareness about a program and its goal
2. Build public opinion and enhance peoples participation
3. Help in legitimization of a Programme of social change
4. Provide support to a cause.
   
   
   One picture is equal to thousand words. Media can be divided in to many types.
   
   
   
   1. Modern media: Modern media is new approach, with the advancement of science and technology the media too is changing. This modern media mainly targets urban and literate persons.
   
      
   
   
   • NEWS PAPER
     Abstract:
     Newspaper is a periodical with the service type or news-type of information. To use this valuable medium of communication effectively, one must consider the kinds of newspapers, the nature and sources of news, and the maintenance of good press re lat ions, as well as the kinds of newspaper copy and how to prepare them.
     
     
   • TELEVISION
     Abstract:
     Television is an electronic system of transmitting still and moving images with accompanying sound over a wire or through space. The system employees equipment that converts light and sound into electrical waves and reconverts then into visible
     
     
   • MOTION PICTURE
     Abstract:
     A motion picture (also called a movie or film) is a series of still pictures taken in rapid succession usually on 8mm or 16mm film stock, which, when projected through a motion picture projector, give the viewers an illusion of motion.
     
     
   • COMPUTER
     
     
     
   • FLASH CARDS
     Abstract:
     Flash cards are a set of pictured compact paper cards of varying sizes that are flashed one by one in a logical sequence before an audience to bring home an idea. The message on each card is brief and up to the point.
     
     
   • TAPE RECORDER
     Abstract:
     Magnetic tape is acetate or plastic ribbon coated on one surface with a layer of magnetizable iron oxide particles (see illustration). The width tape is usually employed to record audio messages magnetically for subsequent reproduction. The tape recorder, with which the magnetic tape is used, can record a message and play it back or play back of pre-recorded tape. The unit contains recording and playback amplifiers and heads (see illustrations). The heads may be full track, half track, dual track, or quarter track (see illustration).
     
     
   • FILMSTRIPS AND SLIDES
     Abstract:
     Filmstrip is a length of 35 mm film containing a series of still pictures intended fro projection in sequence one at a time. Some filmstrips come with a tape or disc recording that contains the narration. When the proper equipment is used, a low frequency signal activates a mechanism to advance the filmstrip one frame. (The filmstrip is sometimes called a strip film and a slide film).
     
     
   • OVER HEAD TRANSPARENCY
     Abstract:
     An overhead transparency is an image usually 8 * 11 on clear acetate or plastic which has been prepared For use on an overhead projector. An overhead projector is a device which throws an image on a screen. It is placed In front of an audience and may be used in a completely lighted on semi-darkened room: it utilized 3 x 4, 7 x 7, 10 * x 10, or most commonly, 8 x 11 transparencies.
     
     
   • DISC RECORDING
     Abstract:
     A phonograph record (or phonodisc or disc) is a round and flat acetate object which has been moulded from a master disc containing an irregular surface which causes sound vibrations that are transferred to the acetate for purpose of reproduction by a needle. The photograph (or record player) is an electronic device that reproduces sound from records.
     
     
   • POSTER
     
     Abstract:
     Poster is a visual combination of bold design, colour and message which is intended to catch and hold the attention of the passer by just long enough to implant a significant idea in his mind. Good posters must have a dynamic, impelling quality. They must be essentially simple for there is not time to involve the viewer in detailed study. They must be striking enough to attract attention. Dramatic simplicity, appropriateness, limited test, attractiveness, design and colour are the good characteristics of the posters.
     
     
   • PICTURE
     Abstract:
     A picture is a two-dimensional visual representation of persons, places, or things. Most commonly it is a photograph, but it also may be a sketch, a cartoon, a mural, or even a chart, graph or map, Pictures may be used for individual study, for display on bulletin boards and in exhibits, and for projection when groups of students need to look at one picture at the same time.
     
     
   • PAMPHLET
     Abstract:
     A pamphlet is an unbound booklet (that is, without a hard cover or binding). It may consist of a single sheet of paper that is printed on both sides and folded in half, in thirds, or in fourths (called a leaflet), or it may consist of a few pages that are folded in half and stapled at the crease to make a simple book. Librarians consider a pamphlet to be any paperback book with 49 pages or less, that is not aimed at children.
     
     
   • FLANNEL BOARD
     Abstract:
     The Flannel board consists of only two Parts - a board covered with flannel and objects having fluzzy and napped backing.
     
     The principle involved is the inter1ooking of fibres of two rough or bairy surfaces, so that the pieces pressed on to a background which is hard and vertical will stay. It can be illustrated on a larger scale by pressing two tooth brushes or hair brushes together, so the bristle inter-1ook. In case of flannel graph similar principle of friction helps an object to cling to the surface of the board.
     
     
   • RADIO
     
     
     
   • EXHIBITION
     Abstract:
     Almost every health educator uses the exhibit to some extent. If you are not using exhibits, perhaps you should ask yourself whether you have opportunities to do so to advantage in libraries, in the department lobby, foyer, or window, at fairs, health meetings, or schools, in store windows, public clinics, and in many other places.
     Source:
     M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
     
     
   • THREE DIMENSIONAL AIDS
     Abstract:
     Of all the av materials, three dimensional aids are nearest to living experiences. These side, such as models and mook-ups are replies or reconstructions of the real thing. They are contrived experiences where reality is altered or simplified for teaching purposes.
     Source:
     M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
     
     
   • GRAPHS AND CHARTS
     
     Abstract:
     
     1. To show relationships by means of facts, figures or statistics.
     2. To present materials symbolically.
     3. To summarize information.
     4. To show continuity in process.
     5. To present abstract ideas in visual form.
     6. To show the development of structures.
     7. To create problems and to stimulate thinking.
     8. To encourage utilization of other media of communication.
     9. To motivate a students desire to continue related research.
     
     Source:
     M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
     
     
   • KITS
     Abstract:
     The kit programme is an outgrowth of school science study projects developed by scientists and classroom teachers as a confidence building point for the teachers. Before the final kit is made available much field testing and revision of the contents is undertaken to ensure a valid programme. Now the kit programme has successfully been developed for various other programmes aimed at imparting knowledge, creating awareness, developing certain interests and skills, and seeking a charge in attitude, etc.
     
     
   • Printed and duplicated material as tools for learning and information
     
     
     
   2. Traditional/Folk media: This media is used through ages this method is suitable for rural and illiterate masses.
   
   
   • FOLK MEDIA
     Abstract:
     Traditional forms of expression were identified. The classification covering the performing arts and the visual arts included music, song, drama, skits, puppet shows , poetry, speech, sounds, gesture, gossip, jokes, proverbs, painting, certain printed literature, sculpture, handicrafts, costuming, patterning and colouring of material and use of head-gear. Symbolic meanings may often be an important consideration in use of any one or combination of these forms of expression and therefore the thought-processes behind selection of forms assumed significance.
     Source:
     M. Thangadorai, Technical Officer - Gandhigram Institue of Rural Health and Family Planning
     
     
   • PUPPETRY
     Abstract:
     This article focuses on puppetry like its advantages, disadvantages, type of puppetry, making arrangements, writing for a puppetry play,conversation and how to use puppets etc.
     Source:
     P. Krishnamurthy, C. Premanandh - Dhan Foundation.
     
     
   • PUPPET SHOWS
     
     
     Abstract:
     Long years ages perhaps in our very village, men and women must have gathered time after time to watch puppet-shows. The puppets may have been different from those of today. Their costumes may have been more elegant, too, but the fun and the laughter must have been the same. There are many echoes from the past that make us sure that puppetry in India is one of the most ancient arts.
     
     The persons who make the puppets and act out the plays are called puppeteers. They become more expert in acting writing the plays, the more plays they produce.
     
     By various means they get a keen insight into human nature and a deeper understanding of human emotions, Not only the puppeteer is being educated but the listeners are being educated as well and that quite painlessly.
     
     

• EFFECTIVENESS OF COMMUNICATION AIDS
  Abstract:
  The article focuses on some essential characteristics, principles of preparation and cues for making effective communication aids.
  
  

• FEED BACK
  Abstract:
  This is a case study which describes about the information which was passed to lay man and its stresses that "Diabetes can not be cured, it can be controlled and there is no medicine for Diabetic retinopathy.
  Source:
  K. Kaliaperumal, I.E.C. Expert - Aravind Eye Care System
  
  
• VISION BY SESSION
  Abstract:
  This case study describes about how a health education session helps to stabilize the vision of a person.
  Source:
  K. Kaliaperumal, I.E.C. Expert - Aravind Eye Care System.
  
  

We are very much charmed to team up with other Resource Centres to reach out more people and develop useful resources. This month we are featuring Gandhigram Institute of Rural Health and Family Welfare Trust as our collaborating partner.

Dr. (Mrs.) T.S. Soundaram established the Gandhigram Institute of Rural Health and Family Welfare Trust in 1964 as an outcome of here successful experiences in the Pilot Health Project in Athoor block during 1959-64. Adopting the concept of Gandhian constructive programs in its delineation of its activities, the project pioneered Community Health Education as the promising concept to stabilize the Health and Family Welfare conditions of the Nation. These pioneering initiatives prompted the Government of Tamil Nadu, Government of India and Ford Foundation to recognize the project as an Institution in the year 1964.

The broad objective of Gandhigram Institute of Rural Health and Family Welfare Trust are

1. Conducting research studies in the field of Reproductive and Child health, Rural Health, and Family Health Activities.
2. Organizing training programs in Reproductive and Child Health, Health and Family Welfare Programs for Personnel from the state and those from other states
3. Developing newer methodologies for implementing Reproductive and Child Health, and other Health programs