Neil Postman, an author, educator, media theorist and cultural critic discusses his book; "The School Book: For People Who Want to Know What All the Hollering Is About,". Mr Postman and Studs talk about his definition of what school is for and it's worth, and they converse about several sections of the book. Mr. Postman reads an excerpt from his book to begin the interview.

Rose Rigsby a writer and poet is interviewed along with Betty Shifflett, who teaches fiction at Columbia College. Ms Rigsby and Ms. Shifflett talk about writing with Studs. Ms. Rigsby reads from her stories and about her time in the Sanitarium and receiving shock therapy. Several excerpts are presented from an interview with Rose Rigsby speaking about children and of taking care of them. (1925145-3-1)

Ms. Russell was a social worker with the YWCA in China from 1917-1943, and the executive director of the Committee for a Democratic Far Eastern Policy from 1946-1952. Ms Russell speaks of her time and work in China, about U.S./China relations and the cultural revolution taking place in China. Includes excerpt of Joshua Horn talking about a worker who got burned while working at a steel factory in China. He speaks of the outpouring help for the man from the community of Shanghi.(1934055-3-1)

Educators Orletta Ryan and Mary Frances Greene, and school children Karen and Lucille talk about their approaches to teaching, fighting in school, and expectations for learning.

Educators Orletta Ryan and Mary Frances Greene, along with school children Karen and Lucille speak to the different experiences they have in their roles at school; part 2.

Discussing the controversy at U.C. concerning the administration's refusal to renew Mrs. Dixon's contract (she later was reinstated but refused to accept) with Dr. Bruno Bettelheim, University of Chicago psychiatrist and Dr. Marlene Dixon, University of Chicago professor.

Discussing the controversy over the use of the book "Working" by author Studs Terkel in a senior vocational class. Interviews with Kay Nichols, teacher, and two high school classes, as well as Bob Burns and Jim Richardson. The students talk of how the "bad" language in the book is heard from their peers on a daily basis and they don't find it offensive. [recorded in Girard, Pennsylvania]

Terkel comments and delivers Francis Parker high school commencement address

Charles E. Silberman and his wife Arlene Silberman discuss education and Charles Silberman's book "Crisis in the Classroom". Includes a clip of Studs Terkel interviewing a student.