Relates the special properties of videodiscs and the economics of videodisc production with the nature of second-language instruction, and suggests ways to design and use cost-effective videodiscs as aural and visual databases for a variety of instructional levels and contexts. (two references) (Author/CB)

Surveys some of the often neglected human factors that must be confronted if the total value of video as an instructional tool is to be realized. These factors include fear of technology, literacy issues vs. television, students' media awareness, and the role of the teacher. (Author/OD)