Cable in the Classroom

Cable television in school classrooms is a controversial subject that has both supporters and opposition.  Cable in the Classroom, or CIC, is the name of an organization that strongly supports the sensible use of cable television in homes, communities, and classrooms. They firmly believe that the use of technology, like high speed internet service and cable content can enhance and expand the learning experience for students, of all ages across the country. The disadvantages to the cable in the classroom include reduced exposure time to learning material, high costs to utilize and operate, and the opportunity to view unsuitable content for a school environment. These concerns are shared by parents and school faculty members, as well. 

The use of cable in the classroom has been around at least since 1989, when CIC was founded. This organization has pioneered the use of cable in schools and learning establishments, and they have developed a working network with cable companies across the United States. Teachers have a whole list of tools available to them for the development of the learning environment. These range from interactive programs to online videos, and there are many more available options as well. CIC offers information pertaining to which schools specifically have cable already and which do not. CIC has installed free cable in over 80,000 schools and this is possible through the resources that exist, because of the partnerships with the cable companies. For parents, having cable available to their children at school teaches them technologies, like television and the internet, safely and ethically while staying productive. 

One major complaint that some education institutions share is that cable television technology is not interactive and offers limited exposure to the critical learning material. The costs for the cable services also can vary by location and a leading factor deals directly with the relationship that is shared between the educational establishment and the local cable provider. Since more channels are becoming available for viewing through CIC affiliations, there also exists a higher risk for students viewing material that is distracting and unrelated to the focus at hand. The teachers, the curriculum, the school or learning institution, and the cable providers all play an important role in making sure that the technology is used in a proper and effective manner. The success or failure of cable in the classrooms, as a whole, depends on the commitment and ethical execution of the information delivery, by all parties involved.

As technology continues to progress, more options will continue to become available to schools and places of learning, for the purpose of education. Monitored, controlled use coupled with responsible oversight, from those who administer the learning material, is the winning formula for success with the use of such technology in the classroom. Though some individuals still shun the idea of using cable technology in the classroom, there are many people and organizations that strongly support it. For additional resources please visit the following links: