Teacher’s Mind: Television can be a great learning tool

Many people think that broad cast media, especially television is responsible for most of the moral degeneration prevailing in our society today. However, this electronic appliance can be of great use even academically. Long ago, TV was actually something rare. It represented success and some times acted as a unifying factor. It united families as every one sat quietly to listen and watch the news and other captivating programmes. On a good day, it would unite communities. A big football match especially during the World Cup tournament would unite people at the home of the TV owner. Today things are a little different. Television sets are now found in many homes that can afford electricity. Schools too have adopted the idea of having a big screen TV set for entertaining students especially over the weekends. Television has really proven to be a phenomenal tool for entertainment for both the young and old. It is rather very important to note that television is not just about entertainment but also education and information. Actually some media practitioners coined the word ‘infotainment’ to refer to its ability to concurrently inform and entertain. Some parents and education practitioners have argued that TV is bad for the kids especially if it is not regulated. However, there are also many good programmes children can learn from this unique broad cast medium that does not only combine audio and sound but also motion. Parents who spare some time to guide their children as they watch television by say answering their questions do a great job. If a child keeps hearing the word ‘terrorism’ during the news hour, then it would make a lot of sense if the parent tried to help him understand what the term means, and so many other terms. There is a lot more to learn from the news programmes on TV. A child can learn and get a clue into world politics, human rights and gender issues among others. He/she can also get vital information about different countries and places. There are some specific educational channels like Discovery channel, National Geographical, and the History channel which are offered by DSTV. These channels have got extremely educative programmes that can be very beneficial to anyone watching them. Parents should also watch them so that they can gain some basic knowledge on certain aspects that may later necessitate explaining to the ever inquisitive children. Rwanda television often airs programmes that teach viewers how to do certain things such as scientific farming methods, latest fashion and styles. Television offers an opportunity for us to learn by observing skills or techniques as they are demonstrated by the presenters. Television also carries informative content on government programmes like unity and reconciliation programmes that we all need to pay attention to. For example during the Genocide memorial week, numerous documentaries and programmes are run on TVR detailing all the crucial dimensions of the 1994 Rwanda Genocide. This is meant to teach the viewing populace about what happened, its effect on the people of Rwanda and why it should never be allowed to happen ever again. Television producers should endeavour to bring out more and more educative programmes so that their viewers can combine entertainment with learning. You can even have teachers come to the studio and elaborate certain things in society. It has always been said that learning has no limits. Boarding schools too need TV sets for the students to watch at least during the weekends. E-mail: ssenyonga@gmail.com