The Simpsons in Higher Education

Abstract

Popular culture if effectively applied can be a powerful aid to learning, increasing student engagement, understanding and enjoyment. The use of popular culture in Higher Education is under explored, using the animated US TV show The Simpsons as a case study the benefits and limitations of this medium are discussed. The Simpsons has been used in a range of Higher Education settings from the humanities to the sciences for contextualising theories and concepts. The Simpsons use is examined in a range of subjects and new uses are presented, both illustrate the shows value in enhancing the learning and teaching experience.