FROM ROOTS TO RESULTS

Where and how exactly does a popular culture sitcom show fit into the classroom? Is there a place for one or are they being used by teachers primarily as entertainment. Take for example, a sitcom like The Big Bang Theory (TBBT), which has become one of the most popular sitcoms globally and is based on the lives and experiences of 4 scientists. The scripts are written containing a significant amount of scientific content that can easily be incoporated into parts of the curriculum, for which teachers are responsible for teaching.

However, upon thinking more closely about how a sitcom such as this one should be used in the classroom it became very evident that it is not enough to just show it but rather a teacher needs to plan. It is important that the teacher know the students and ensure that the video clip or episode is appropriate for their age and achievement levels. It is also important that the teacher identify the intention for using the video and outline the specific expectations and learning outcomes. It is crucial that the educator assess whether there is knowledge that requires teaching prior to watching it and it is just as important that the teacher prepare to assess for student understanding. When we are using popular culture in the classroom for the purpose of engaging our students and teaching to their interests and needs it is just as important that we ensure we are using the popular culture effectively and for the purpose of educating rather than entertaining.

The following is a link to the presentation I gave in class about teaching Science using The Big Bang Theory and within the presentation are several different examples of how The Big Bang Theory can be used to facilitate discussion, encourage writing etc.. ENJOY!

http://prezi.com/ylpgnxbbqbc8/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy