TV: Yay or Nay?

One of the most controversial teaching tools I can think of is television. For the most part, studies point to it’s detrimental value and how it has corrupted young minds. While I do not contest that, I still would like to think TV can be a good venue for learning, especially when augmented with activities that broaden the lessons being taught. Further, learning is not limited to wathcing educational or informational channels, such as National Geographic and The Discovery Channel. I think what is key when using television as a medium for learning is making sure one monitors or picks the right shows to watch.  Selecting channels and looking at Direct TV Packages, for example, can allow parents to make sure their children and teenagers are making the most of TV time. Direct TV Offers various Direct TV Deals ranging from entertainment to family line-ups.

Growing up, my mom was not very strict with me when it came to television. For the most part, she allowed me to watch as much as I wanted, as long as my homework was done. She also was not very limiting, although she had guidelines about what I could and could not watch. For me, I think she was quite effective. However, comparatively, I noticed that some of my young students are exposed to much more questionable content as I was back then. Here are some suggestions I can think of as a teacher to make sure kids are getting more of the good than the bad from television:

1. No TV during mealtimes. I think that while the TV helps keep kids seated long enough to finish their food, it sets a bad precedent that lasts almost a lifetime.

2. TV does not belong in the bedroom, especially their bedroom.

3. Watch TV together. TV time can be a form of bonding, then afterwards, do a follow-up activity related to the show you watched. For example, when watching the show Art Attack (or similar shows), why not actually do the project afterwards?

As a whole, the advent of the television can be a slippery slope to take. However,  like anything else, when done in moderation, it can be a good thing.

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