A reexamination of the role of the mass media in the educational process is presented. Part One establishes the current status of American society and education as seen by Alvin Toffler and Peter L. Klinge, the editor. Also, Charles E. Silberman compares the problems of media with those of education. Part Two attempts to clearly define the effects of mass media in education. Former Federal Communication Commissioner Nicholas Johnson demands better use of the public airways. Herbert L. Gans considers what commercial television does teach, and Robert Weissberg argues that the mass media cannot change the attitudes of the viewer. In contrast "Sesame Street" is described as showing that TV can be an effective educational force when employed with specific objectives. John L. Debes discusses the growing role of visual literacy; John G. Herlihy suggests new ways of reaching young children; and Neil Postman presents a case for variety in learning experiences. George N. Gordon states what ITV is and is not; Urie Bronfenbrenner illustrates what TV teaching can and cannot do. Dual Audio TV, and the use of television and other media in higher education are also discussed. (WCM)