Educational Television and Technology

Gary Knell talked about the challenges of using new and ever-changing media to keep “Sesame Street” relevant to young children. “Sesame Street” that year celebrated its 40th anniversary on television. After four decades using media to teach, “Sesame Street” now extends its educational efforts to popular media platforms like cell phones and mobile gaming devices. Mr. Knell also discussed where he sees children’s media going next as Sesame Workshop continues to seek new ways to reach children where they are with lessons that are both appealing and relevant to the needs of today’s child. Mr. Knell was joined by Grover, one of the original Muppets from the flagship television show, which was created in 1969 to help disadvantaged preschool children prepare for school. It was considered a groundbreaking experiment in television, and has been shown in more than 140 countries. Mr. Knell and Grover both responded to questions submitted by members of the audience. close