ILLUSTRATION OF STORY BOOK USING AFRICAN CULTURAL THEMES FOR ENHANCEMENT AMONG THE PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN (PUPILS)

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore visual elements(images) to illustrate story book for enhancing reading culture among primary school children in Africa with a view to developing an alternative to enhance reading and learning. Using a survey method, an instrument was developed with six (6) and Eleven (11) question items each, for children and teachers respectively. Two hundred (200) copies were administered to children and one hundred (100) to teachers. There were a hundred percent (100%) return from both the children and teachers. Analysis of the study shows that forty-eight point three percent (48.3%) of Children prefer purely cultural themes, forty three point eight percent (43.8%) likes foreign themes, and Seven point nine percent (7.9%) went for combined themes. The responses from the teachers indicate the need to use cultural themes in children's books. In conclusion, the study observed that the use of culturally appropriate images complements the foreign visuals and thereby aids perception which would also enhance learning among Children. The study recommends that illustrators and publishers of Children's books in Africa should consider among other factors the Children's Socio- Cultural environment when designing their books, as Children will be more familiar with such images and thereby aids retention and memory in reading.