How To Find TV Shows That Teach You Something New

Television has evolved from a medium primarily used for entertainment to a powerful tool for learning and self-improvement. The sheer variety of TV shows available today allows viewers to engage with content that can teach them something new, whether it's about history, science, philosophy, culture, or human psychology. But how do you find shows that provide not just entertainment, but knowledge and valuable insights? This article will guide you through the process of discovering TV shows that can teach you something new, explore the impact of such shows, and give you practical tips on how to make the most out of your viewing experience.

The Educational Potential of TV Shows

TV shows often receive criticism for promoting mindless entertainment. However, in reality, television is an incredibly versatile medium, capable of conveying complex ideas and offering insights into various subjects. From documentaries to historical dramas, educational TV programs can not only inform but also inspire viewers to learn more about the world around them. The key to finding these shows lies in identifying what you want to learn and knowing where to look.

Why TV Shows Are Great for Learning

TV shows have several advantages over other forms of learning. They are immersive, visually engaging, and can make abstract or complex concepts more accessible through storytelling. Here are some reasons why TV shows can be valuable tools for learning:

1. Engagement Through Visuals and Storytelling: TV shows use visuals and narratives to captivate the audience, making difficult or dry subjects more engaging. Whether it's the complexities of science or the intricacies of history, shows can bring these topics to life in ways that books or articles might not.
2. Multi-sensory Learning: TV shows appeal to multiple senses, combining visuals, sounds, and music. This multi-sensory stimulation can enhance learning and retention of information. For example, historical dramas and documentaries help viewers visualize key events and places, making them easier to understand and remember.
3. Learning Through Characters and Context: Characters on TV often serve as relatable figures through which the audience can learn new ideas. By following characters as they navigate personal or professional challenges, viewers can absorb life lessons, psychological insights, and cultural norms in a way that feels organic and entertaining.
4. Diverse Topics and Perspectives: TV shows cover an immense range of topics---from science and history to social issues and cultural phenomena. This breadth allows you to explore subjects outside your usual interests, expanding your knowledge and understanding of the world.
5. Easy Access: With the proliferation of streaming services and on-demand content, finding educational TV shows has never been easier. Shows are now accessible at your fingertips, enabling you to learn at your own pace and according to your schedule.

How to Find TV Shows That Teach You Something New

1. Leverage Streaming Platforms' Educational Content

The rise of streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+ has revolutionized how we access TV content. These platforms offer a variety of educational shows that can teach you something new across different domains.

• Netflix: Netflix has become home to a wide range of documentaries, docuseries, and educational content. Titles like Explained , Our Planet , The Social Dilemma , and The Last Dance are just a few examples of how Netflix blends entertainment with educational value. You can explore topics like environmental conservation, social media manipulation, and sports history while enjoying high-quality content.
• Amazon Prime Video: Amazon Prime also offers a solid selection of documentaries, historical series, and educational films. Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey hosted by Neil deGrasse Tyson and The Man in the High Castle (which explores alternative history) are prime examples of how TV can combine science and history into captivating narratives.
• Hulu: Hulu offers a mix of educational documentaries and series on various subjects. Shows like The Handmaid's Tale can spark important discussions on gender and societal issues, while The Mind, Explained offers deep dives into how the human brain works, tackling psychology and mental health from an educational perspective.
• Disney+: Although primarily known for entertainment, Disney+ offers some educational programs, particularly through National Geographic. Shows like One Strange Rock and Free Solo explore the wonders of Earth and the human spirit in ways that educate and inspire.

2. Explore Documentaries and Docuseries

Documentaries and docuseries are a fantastic source of educational content. These programs are designed to delve deep into specific subjects, providing factual information in a structured format. Many documentaries also incorporate interviews with experts, making them both informative and engaging.

• Science and Nature Documentaries: If you're interested in the natural world or scientific discovery, look for shows like Planet Earth , Cosmos , or The Blue Planet. These documentaries often feature breathtaking visuals and cutting-edge research that will teach you about the wonders of the universe, the evolution of life on Earth, and the latest advancements in science.
• Social and Cultural Issues: Shows like 13th by Ava DuVernay and The Social Dilemma dive into issues like systemic racism, the criminal justice system, and the impact of social media on society. These documentaries provide a nuanced understanding of the complex societal challenges of our time.
• History Documentaries: Programs like The Civil War by Ken Burns or World War II in Colour offer in-depth looks at key moments in history, providing viewers with a greater understanding of the past and its impact on the present.

3. Seek Out Educational YouTube Channels

While not technically TV shows, many YouTube channels are effectively creating TV-quality educational content. Channels like CrashCourse , Kurzgesagt , TED-Ed , and Veritasium offer short, engaging, and well-researched videos on a variety of topics.

These channels take complex subjects and break them down into digestible pieces, often with high-quality animations or on-location reporting. Whether you want to learn about economics, space exploration, or world history, YouTube has a wealth of educational resources.

4. Explore Historical Dramas and Biographies

If you enjoy fiction but still want to learn, historical dramas and biographical series can be a great choice. These shows are often based on real events, providing viewers with insight into the lives of significant historical figures or important cultural movements.

• Historical Dramas: Shows like The Crown (which explores the reign of Queen Elizabeth II), Chernobyl (which dramatizes the nuclear disaster), and The Tudors (which delves into the reign of Henry VIII) offer historical perspectives on real-world events. While these shows take creative liberties, they often provide valuable insight into the political, social, and personal dynamics of the past.
• Biographies: Series like Genius (about Albert Einstein) or The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story explore the lives of famous individuals or momentous events. These shows offer a more intimate view of history, humanizing figures and providing an educational perspective on their achievements or controversies.

5. Engage with Educational Series on Personal Development

If you're interested in self-improvement, many TV shows and docuseries explore topics like personal development, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence.

• Self-help Documentaries: Shows like The Minimalists: Less Is Now and Tidying Up with Marie Kondo explore the impact of decluttering and organizing your life. They offer practical tips and strategies for personal growth and well-being.
• Psychology and Mental Health: Series like Mindhunter (which dives into the psychology of serial killers) and The Mind Explained provide an educational exploration of how the human mind works, examining various psychological concepts and disorders.
• Success and Motivation: Documentaries such as Inside Bill's Brain: Decoding Bill Gates offer a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of successful individuals, providing valuable lessons about leadership, perseverance, and innovation.

6. Look for Shows with Expert Hosts or Guests

Another way to find TV shows that teach you something new is to look for shows that feature experts in various fields. These shows often have knowledgeable hosts or guests who provide insights based on years of experience or research.

• TED Talks: The TED Talks series is a perfect example of expert-driven content. Each episode features a speaker who offers expert insights into a variety of topics, ranging from science and technology to creativity and leadership.
• Talk Shows and Interviews: Talk shows like The Daily Show or Pod Save America often feature experts discussing current events, providing valuable perspectives on political, social, and economic issues. These types of shows can help you stay informed while also offering educational value.

Conclusion

Television can be a rich source of knowledge and personal growth. From documentaries and educational series to historical dramas and personal development shows, there is no shortage of content that can teach you something new. By exploring a variety of genres and platforms, and being intentional about what you watch, you can make TV time an opportunity for learning rather than mindless entertainment. The key is to seek out content that resonates with your curiosity, engages your intellect, and inspires you to dive deeper into the subjects that interest you. So, start exploring the world of TV shows that educate, entertain, and expand your horizons---there's a wealth of knowledge waiting to be discovered.

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