| This descriptive case study investigated how teachers used television in their classrooms, what type of television programs they normally showed their students, and the perceptions that the students had about these programs at Glenbard East High School in Lombard, Illinois. The data was collected via student and teacher interviews and surveys, along with classroom observations and information from television and program reservations.; Most of the teachers reported using television programs to show students practical applications of the subject matter, to convey images of the "real world," and as a tool for enhancing classroom instruction. The teachers also used video clips to establish historical background and to provide visual images of unfamiliar phenomena and situations.; Both teachers and students agreed on most of the goals for watching television in the classroom. The highest ratings were given to the visual aspects of television. The teachers, however, voiced frustration over the students' lack of attention paid to educational programs and the students complained of the many "boring" programs shown in their classes.; Many students reported that they watched only the high-interest and entertaining programs in the classroom because they considered watching television an optional activity. This perception stemmed from the absence of requirements related to the television programs and the way television was utilized as merely an enhancement to instruction in most classes. Students reported that the information given by the television programs was either covered in class or not required.; The data also revealed that although the teachers expressed an interest in having their students learn content from the television programs and to become involved in creative-thinking skills, evaluation, and analysis related to the viewing process, the students were rarely required to engage in these mental activities. |
