Abstract

The purpose of this research is to comparatively investigate teaching effectiveness by observing nonverbal behaviors of preschoolers between two classroom activities, narration (traditional teaching), and virtual representation of a fairy tale (computer-mediated instruction). To conduct this qualitative research, case study was considered as the basic method. The sample consisted of preschoolers, all of them participants at the same Rhodian kindergarten classroom. "Little Red Riding Hood" fairy tale was presented by teacher to preschoolers in two ways, first with traditional narration and then with a movie made by research team. Data collection was performed by participant observation. The comparison focused on emotions of preschoolers as revealed by their non-verbal behaviors while children participated in both instructional activities, and primarily by their facial expressions and body movements. The data analysis indicates that the emotional responses of preschoolers during the presentation of the movie, as revealed by their facial expressions and body movements, were stronger and their interest was more increased. Based on the research findings, it is concluded that use of computer and other ICT equipment by teachers in a fairy tale narration, could increase the interest of preschoolers, achieving this way a better participation within the framework of an effective teaching.