Examines a range of art educators' proposals to include popular culture within the general art curriculum. The proposals are based on four basic social theories: (1) liberal humanism; (2) two variants of liberal pluralism; (3) and Neo-Marxism. Concludes by emphasizing the need for Neo-Marxist theory in the school setting. (BSR)

Traces the development of British and Australian television criticism from the mid-seventies. Suggests a conscious study of the characteristics of television as a cultural agent and as a text within a sociocultural context. (MS)

The stereotyping of Blacks on television has changed in nature but continues despite the networks' awkward efforts to avoid accusation of racism. Today, situation comedies and detective shows include Blacks in positive roles, but very few portray Blacks as realistically or authentically as Whites are portrayed. (KH)

It is ironic that the barometer of progress for Blacks has been their success in the performing arts. The film industry has historically shaped and reflected racist attitudes toward Blacks, while the popular music industry still segregates and exploits Black artists. (Author/GC)

Examination of a subset of books popular with young adults--problem novels or young adult realism--is based on deductions concerning nature of reading response that text invites. Young adult realism as formula of popular culture, changes in conventions, narrators and narratees, and identification and distance are discussed. (34 references) (EJS)

This paper presents an imaginary conversation between an interviewer and the novelist, James Michener (1907-1997). Starting with Michener's early life experiences in Doylestown (Pennsylvania), the conversation includes his family's poverty, his wanderings across the United States, and his reading at the local public library. The dialogue includes…

In this interview, popular composer and recording artist Chuck Mangione discusses his own musical background and his views on music education, including the workshops he conducts for student musicians. This article is part of a theme issue on popular music. (SJL)

Argues for the expansion of college English courses and the redefinition of "literature" to include such works as the books of Bram Stoker, H. Rider Haggard, and television and movie scripts as a way of keeping English "alive and well." (FL)

Looks at popular music, particularly punk music, and its troubled place in the composition curriculum for college students. Gives an overview of recent eras and the role popular music has played in college courses. (TB)

Seeks to widen discussion about which forms of literacy are most appropriate for the education of children in the twenty-first century. Outlines the current debate about the changes to children's literacy practices. Argues that what is required from teachers is a transformative pedagogy. Notes how this would allow children's cultural interest to…

Analyzes popular culture as it relates to the expression of universal human values, namely the desire and struggle for freedom from tyranny and oppression. Examines popular culture as the everyday social experience of marginalized students as they confront, make sense of, and contend with social institutions such as schools, the mass media,…

Introduces a special issue devoted to methods of observing popular culture. Discusses briefly the articles included in the issue, and makes suggestions for other ways to approach the study of popular culture. Argues that methods of research are tied fundamentally to the questions asked, and the ways questions are asked are directed by theoretical…

Discusses reasons for the popularity of "Star Trek" as a television show and cultural phenomenon, considers the success of formulaic plots, and provides an annotated list of 10 of the best episodes out of all 79 that are available on videocassettes for possible purchase by librarians. (LRW)

Discusses the relationship between journalism education and the liberal arts. Contends that critical, cultural, or qualitative studies provide a powerful focus for linking journalism education more firmly to the liberal arts. (SR)

Muses over how many books bought are actually read. Reflects on factors involved in the decision not merely to buy books but to read them. Notes that some people maintain that most of what is actually read is pap. Wonders whether reading teachers should pay more attention to what people read, as well as how people read. (SR)