Describes activities of the Developmental and Social Research Unit of the American Broadcasting Companies. Holds that the television industry (and the general industry sector) can collaborate with the academic community on research to provide mutual benefits for both groups. Discusses how such collaboration might be most effectively carried out.…

Notes that to succeed in television both the audience and what is trying to be achieved with them must be known. Also important is a knowledge of what appeals to the audience, what their needs and interests are, and how the educational objectives planned for them can connect with these characteristics. (Author/AM)

Summarizes research findings on the structures, codes, and conventions of television as a communicative symbol, and on the effects of television on cognitive and social development. Suggests that television viewing can induce active cognitive processing, and that television can be a potent tool for teaching and communicating with young children.…

In view of the significant impact of television on children, the national leadership must work for increased production of high quality children's programs. Public and private actions are needed to generate both financial and nonfinancial incentives to encourage creativity in the television industry. (Author/MJL)

Examines effects of the structure and content of television on children's cognitive, motor, and affective development, and discusses relationships between family life style and television viewing. Suggests that current television programs can have harmful effects on children, and presents proposals for interventions to expose children to more…