Edison standard phonograph for language teaching, c.1903

Edison standard phonograph modified for ICS language courses, c.1903

An attempt to exploit the phonograph for the teaching of languages was made as early as 1897 but in 1903 a special instrument was provided by the National Phonograph Co for use by the International Correspondance School.

The instrument was an Edison Standard model equipped with a lever by which the reproducer could be lifted off the cylinder, moved back a short distance and then replcaed so that the student could hear a repetition of the last phrase spoken.