WBZ And Education
In the 1920s, most people did not go to college. Radio was a lifeline for those wanting more education. WBZ was at the forefront of educational programming, joining the state Department of Education to provide extension courses. Early WBZ listeners could take courses in Music Appreciation, how to speak French and how to write short stories. Local professors taught college-level courses. WBZ did not forget our younger listeners. We introduced the Radio Nature League hosted by author and naturalist Thornton W. Burgess. By the 40s, adults could participate in radio education, learning about Civics, and Science. WBZ also participated in the Listen and Learn series, linking WBZ up with area classrooms to teach World History, Literature, and other subjects.