Where Vygotsky Meets Piaget: American Educational Television Goes to Russia

A discussion of the current effort to develop a Russian version of the acclaimed American educational television program Sesame Street highlights some fundamental differences between American and Russian educational philosophies and research methods. The program’s producers have shown much sensitivity in their willingness to adapt the show to local conditions; yet there are many features and ideas implicit in the program that conflict with Russian views on education and research. Thus Russians are broadcasting a hybrid show that represents American cultural values and educational ideals, but which also makes a valiant effort to uphold Russian cultural norms. (DIPF/ Orig.