Types of Learning Resources Explained

Types of Learning Resources Explained

Learning resources encompass a variety of materials and tools used in educational settings to enhance teaching and learning. This guide explains the different types of learning resources, including documentary and non-documentary sources, and their roles in education. It covers primary and secondary sources, providing examples such as textbooks, periodicals, and digital materials. Educators and students will find valuable insights on how to effectively utilize these resources for improved learning outcomes. Ideal for teachers, students, and educational professionals seeking to optimize their learning environments.

Key Points

  • Explains the distinction between documentary and non-documentary learning resources.
  • Covers primary sources like original research and secondary sources that compile information.
  • Includes examples of various learning materials such as textbooks, periodicals, and digital resources.
  • Discusses the importance of learning resources in supporting educational programs and enhancing student engagement.
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Course on - Managing Learning Resources
Module 1 on - Learning Resource Materials
Lecture 1 on
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Types of Learning Resources
Learning resources
“Learning resources” refers to any person(s) or material, whether acquired or locally
produced, with instructional content or function that is used for formal or informal
teaching/learning purposes. Learning resources include textbooks; other books;
supplementary reading and informational materials; charts; community resource people,
agencies, and organizations; dioramas; filmstrips; flash cards; games; globes; kits;
computer software applications; maps; microfilms; models; motion pictures; periodicals;
pictures; realia; slides; sound recordings; transparencies; and video recordings; as well as
access services to telecommunications (Internet).
Primary objective
The primary objective of learning resources is to support, enrich, and
enhance the implementation of educational programs.
It is the responsibility of professional staff to provide students with learning
resources that are appropriate to the needs, interests, and abilities of learners
Definition of learning resources:
Learning resources are those devices and procedures that help to make teaching and
learning interesting, more stimulating, more reinforcing and effective. It should be
simple enough so that student can understand it and enhance his learning
A learning resources is a source from which learning benefits are produced. It is
required to accomplish an activity or to achieve desire outcomes.
Learning resource include learning materials along with the other learning opportunities
created through discussion, questioning etc. in the teaching learning process.
Examples: Text, digital materials, class room discourses such as discussions and
interaction with peers, elders / teachers.
Difference between learning resources and learning materials
Type of resources:
It is very important to know the difference between different types of resources. You will find
different kinds of information is available in different resources. It is also we do not want to
waste time for searching for resources which will not give you information we need
The various types of resources can be divided into two broad categories.
A- Documentary resources
B- Non-Documentary resources
A- Documentary resources- These are generally published or recorded documents of
knowledge. Documentary sources may be as under:
1. Primary Sources- Primary sources of information are the firstpublished records of original
research and development or description of new application or new interpretation of an old
theme or idea. There are original documents representing unfiltered original ideas.
These constitute the latest available information. A researcher producing new information can
make it available to the particular community through the primary sources. Often, it may be
the only source of information in existence. Primary sources are unorganized sources, which
are rather difficult to use by them, the secondary sources helps us to use these. These are
important sources of information. A subject becomes a discipline in its own right when
independent primary sources begin to be produced in that area. The rate of growth of a
discipline to a large extent depends upon the amount of literature being produced in the form
of primary sources reporting development in the concerned field.
Primary source is a term used in a number of disciplines to describe source material that is
closest to the person, information, period or idea being studied.
In historiography, a primary source (also called original source) is an artifact, a document, a
recording, or other source of information that was created at the time under study. If created by
a human source then a source with direct personal knowledge of the events being described.
It serves as an original source of information about the topic. Similar definitions are used in
library Science, and other areas of scholarship.
Learning Resources Learning Materials
These are devices or procedures / texts.
Example: Digital material, Classroom
Discussion, Interaction with Peers/ adults.
These are concrete/ manipulative material.
Example: Textbook and Worksheets,
Magazines, News clippings, Picture,
Posters, Photographs, Teaching aid – Globe,
Video films, equipment etc.
In journalism, a primary source can be a person with direct knowledge of a situation or a
document created by such a person. Primary sources are distinguished from secondary sources,
which cite, comment on, or build upon primary sources. Though the distinction is not a sharp
one. “Primary and secondary are relative terms, with sources judged primary or secondary
according to specific historical contexts and what is being studied.” (Kragh 1989)
Examples–Letters, Speeches, Manuscripts, Community meeting, Diaries, Personal journals,
Survey, Historical documents, E- mail contact, Photograph,
2. Secondary Sources- Secondary sources of information are thosewhich are either compiled
from or refer to primary sources of information. The original information having been casually
modified selected or reorganized so as to serve a definite purpose for group of users. Such
sources contain information arranged and organized on the basis of some definite plan. These
contain organized repackaged knowledge rather than new knowledge. Information given in
primary sources is made available in a more convenient form. Due to their very nature,
secondary sources are more easily and widely available than primary sources. These not only
provide digested information but also serve as bibliographical key to primary sources of
information. The primary sources are the first to appear, these are followed by secondary
sources. It is difficult to find information from primary sources directly. Therefore, one should
consult the secondary sources in the first instance, which will lead one to specific primary
sources.
Examples–Books, Periodicals, Audio & Video materials, TV documentaries, Photographs,
Web sites &wikis
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FAQs of Types of Learning Resources Explained

What are primary sources in learning resources?
Primary sources are original materials that provide direct evidence or firsthand accounts of a topic. They include documents such as research articles, diaries, interviews, and photographs created at the time of study. These sources are crucial for researchers and students as they offer unfiltered insights into the subject matter. Understanding primary sources helps learners develop critical thinking skills and engage deeply with the content.
What types of non-documentary sources are mentioned?
Non-documentary sources include informal communication methods such as conversations with colleagues, attendance at professional meetings, and insights from experts in the field. These sources provide valuable context and real-world perspectives that complement formal educational materials. They are particularly useful in fields like science and technology, where current developments are rapidly evolving.
How do secondary sources differ from primary sources?
Secondary sources analyze, interpret, or summarize primary sources. They include textbooks, review articles, and encyclopedias that provide organized knowledge rather than original research. Secondary sources are essential for students as they help synthesize information and offer a broader understanding of a topic. They serve as a bridge to primary sources, making it easier for learners to access and comprehend complex information.
What role do digital resources play in education?
Digital resources, such as online databases and educational software, enhance learning by providing interactive and customizable experiences. They allow educators to tailor content to individual student needs, promoting engagement and retention. The use of technology in education facilitates access to a vast array of information, enabling students to explore topics in depth and at their own pace. As digital literacy becomes increasingly important, understanding how to effectively use these resources is vital for modern education.
What are tertiary sources and their significance?
Tertiary sources compile and distill information from primary and secondary sources into a convenient format. Examples include bibliographies, indexes, and encyclopedias. These sources are significant as they help users locate and navigate the vast amount of information available. They serve as essential tools for researchers and students, providing quick access to relevant literature and facilitating efficient information retrieval.

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