The image of education in primetime network television series 1948‐1988

Abstract

Analysis of primetime television series from 1948 to 1988 found that series centering on education are rare and transient. The world of television education, while presented positively, is less diverse in settings, activities and role depictions than the world of actual education. Television's teachers are dedicated, work with interested students in urban high schools or colleges, and often have conflicts with cranky or inept administrators. White males far outnumber females and minorities in most occupational roles. Themes about non‐traditional educators, family life of students and teachers, and educational problems are common.