Abstract

Communication teachers can use magic in the classroom to teach the selective nature of the communication process and principles of general semantics. Since magic "works " due to perceptual limitations, selective perception can be illustrated through various magic effects. Magical effects where the secret is apparent to everyone in the class except for one member can show the students that an individual's perception is limited and selective. Several principles of general semantics, including "nonallness " and "nonidentity, " can similarly be illustrated through the use of select magic effects. The three best ways that teachers can learn magic that can be used in the classroom are from books, from video tapes, and from personal instruction. Some teachers might desire to start performing magic in their classes but hesitate to do so. Magic is a novel, fun, and interesting way to gain students ' attention, to keep their attention focused on the subject matter of the class, and to teach them something in the process. (Contains 37 references.) (RS) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document.