The relationship between television and education in France is discussed, with reference to the arguments of several detractors and a recent report suggesting that there may be a number of ways in which the two "largest institutions in France" can benefit from each other. (MSE)

A number of French second-language teaching techniques and activities based on the program "Olympus," televised by satellite, are outlined. The program brings together extracts of items from other channels according to themes (e.g., pollution, transportation) that can be exploited in the language classroom to develop receptive and…

Examines the type of materials available for area studies courses, finding that in general their contents, drawn from news media reports, are of low intellectual value. Proposes the utilization of data collected and analyzed by specialists and presents a sample unit on the levels of income and socioeconomic status in France. (MES)

This article provides an analysis of textbooks available for teaching French civilization and ranging in orientation from subjective, historical, geographical, cultural and sociological approaches to anthropological, semiotic, comparative and linguistic ones. The content and the format of the texts is dealt with, as well as various teaching…

Describes a guidance and information dossier compiled at the University of Lyon-II to assist foreign students working under an "au pair" arrangement. Explains how the dossier is used as instructional material in French language and civilization classes, suggesting that such training should take place in the country of origin. (MES)

Presents various activities designed to foster the learning of a language. These include the use of everyday "street words" taught to advanced level students, the use of political speeches of French presidential candidates in order to familiarize advanced adolescents with political discourse, and the playing of cassette tapes and videos…