A round-table debate about the Montessori educational theory. Four early childhood development professionals speak of the pros and the cons of the program. Speakers include: Fay Bauling advisor at Wilson Jr. College, Dr. Urban Fleege of DePaul University, Dr. Ner Littner from the Institute of Psychoanalysis, and Hannah MacLaren, head teacher from Ancona School.

Studs has a spirited discussion with Jonathan Kozol who shares his adventures and learnings in Cuba that formed the basis of his book "Children of the Revolution: A Yankee Teacher in the Cuban Schools." Kozol explains the ambitious Cuban Literacy Campaign begun in the 1960s that aimed to educate the entire population, tells of children teaching adults in remote villages by lantern light, and the unity and national pride that resulted. He and Studs explore the idea of generative words in literacy education and contemplate Kozol's hope to adapt a similar approach to American education.

Dr. Robert Coles' book, "The Call of Service; A Witness to Idealism" came as a result of watching of his mother work tirelessly in soup kitchens, helping the less fortunate. Through his stories and experiences, Coles lets his audience know that one must put himself in others' shoes to truly help others.

According to Bill Ayers, in order to be a good teacher, one must 1st become a student of his/her students' lives. New ideas on how to become a better teacher are offered in Ayers' book, "To Teach: The Journey of a Teacher.'

John T. Scopes was a young teacher who taught biology. He was arrested because in Tennessee, no theory of the origin of man could be taught in schools. Clarence Darrow, an attorney from Chicago, defended Scopes in the "Scopes Monkey Trial" of 1925. Scopes was found guilty and was fined $100.

In schools, reading, writing and speech are all on the decline because there are too many visual images from the TV, according to Neil Postman’s book, “Teaching as a Conserving Activity”. Postman criticized “Sesame Street” for its instantaneity. There are no short cuts in teaching, said Postman. He believed the worst thing a teacher could do was to make teaching entertaining for their students.

George Von Hilsheimer, educator and author of “How To Live with Your Special Child: A Practical Guide for Parents and Teachers,” discusses his work with troubled youth.