Watch a brief segment (up to 15 minutes) of a television show children might watch (i.e., any show on PBS Kids, Disney Junior, etc.). For each television show or clip viewed, answer as many of the following questions that apply.
- Give the title or a brief description of the television program or scene.
- Is the television program designed specifically for young children? How do you know?
- Does it stimulate thinking? Did it intentionally aim at providing an educational message? If so, what was the intended message? If not, what do you think a preschooler would have learned from viewing the show?
- identify several stimuli (e.g., characters, acoustics, colors, themes) that you think a preschooler would most readily attend to, and explain why. What image or message would they have learned from these salient features of the show?
- How many aggressive or violent acts are in the show? Briefly describe one if applicable. Try and explain this scene through the eyes of a preschooler (e.g., what might he or she be thinking or concluding). Did anything occur that you think might promote fear or distress for a young viewer? Why?
- How many prosocial or humorous acts are in the show? Briefly describe one. Try and explain this scene through the eyes of a preschooler (e.g., what might he or she be thinking or concluding).
- Are references made to both males and females? How is each portrayed? Were there any role or cultural stereotypes? Was there any comment, scene, or action that might send a message about social norms or expectations (e.g., discipline, materialism, relationships)?
- Would you let your own preschool child view this television show? Explain why or why not.
Sample Solution
