In an examination of the conflict between the mass media and public education, the author concludes that a pressing need exists for better understanding and cooperation between the two and calls for action which involves them both. The overcommunication of the media and the under-utilization of the media toward constructive ends are examined. Separate chapters discuss the rift between the formal pursuit of education and the informal educational effect of the media; the swiftness of the communications revolution and the mildness of the educational revolution; formal and informal teaching for learning and the role of the media in the learning process; the need to harness the power of the media to effect social, political, and economic improvements; and the concept of a media curriculum. Challenges for the future are advanced in terms of basic communicative skills, an expanded educational setting, and a new course for everyone. The new course, mass media, would present the historical development, technical devices, styles, and methods, economic foundations and institutional setting, and the psychological and sociological role of the media. The final chapter reiterates that a combined effort of the two forces would result in a humanistic education directed toward the development of a citizenry capable of taking intelligent, self-directed action when confronted with significant issues. (Author/KC)