How Does Sesame Street Incorporate Observational Learning?

First appeared in 1969, Sesame Street was designed to improve children's social and cognitive skills. Sesame Street uses fast-paced action, sound effects and music, and humorous characters to grab children's attention. It is being watched regularly by 50% of 2-5 year old Americans.

Sesame Street is currently shown in 84 countries. Acknowledging the importance of cultural experience in learning, the staff of Sesame Street produced 13 foreign versions of the show. Barrio Sesamo, which is shown in 17 south- and central-american countries, including Puerto Rico, emphasizes how cultural exposure can lead to understanding of the diversity of lifestyle in America. Richov Sumsum, shown in Israel, demonstrates how people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds can live in harmony. And Sesamstraat, shown in Netherlands, introduce the concept of school and education in young children through the character of Pino, a 7-foot tall bird who is always eager to learn.

Sesame Street conquers television critics who believe that television lures children from school work and books, and makes them passive learners. Research shows that regular viewers of Sesame Street from low-income families are better prepared to learn upon entering Grade 1 than those who do not watch it regularly.