Visual instruction--the use of interesting or clarifying objective illustrations such as specimens, maps, pictures, and the like--are as old as formal instruction or what is now thought of as organized education. In recent years, however, new visual mediums or aids have been introduced into instructional practices, many of which have a special appeal to the interest of youth of school age. The use of the sound film in the classroom is perhaps the most recent innovation, but moving pictures, film strips, the silent movie, and stereoptican slides are other visual aids of comparatively recent development. To what extent and how are these newer instruments used? What problems are involved in their introduction and in what ways is their use evaluated? A nationwide survey of the use of visual aids in school systems, made by the Office of Education in cooperation with the American Council on Education in 1936, sought to shed light on these questions. This bulletin provides an interpretive report of the survey. Chapters explore: (1) Visual aids in elementary and secondary schools (the nationwide survey); (2) Objects, specimens, and models; (3) Still pictures and graphic presentations; and (4) Motion pictures. The Appendix provides the survey questionnaire. (Contains 10 footnotes, 6 tables, and 15 figures.) [Best copy available has been provided.]