SURVIVAL SKILLS FOR STUDENTS: THE VIDEO Produced and directed by Rick Chafe Manitoba Educational Television for Manitoba Education & Training, 1990. VHS cassette, 17:00 min., $99.00, manual $7.00. Distributed by Magic Lantern Film Distributors, Unit #38, 775 Pacific Rd., Oakville, Ont. L6L 6M4. Reviewed by Katy Cambell-Bonar Volume 20 Number 4 1992 January Produced by Manitoba Educational Television, this program parodies Sergeant Dan Friday as a Special Study Skills Counsellor, whose mission is to encourage students to "study smarter, not harder." Three senior high school/ junior undergraduate students are guided through a system of efficient study skills geared to their individual learning styles and needs. This "case study" approach is accomplished with fast pacing and topical humour. The "high-tech" background will appeal to today's students. Designed for use with older students who might be learning at a distance, the video and accompanying workbook are carefully prepared to encourage a selfpaced, "programmed" approach to their use. Although the video is designed to be used somewhat interactively, the workbook, in particular, contains a wealth of customizable information, tips and self-help strategies. In keeping with the "Friday" theme, the style of the counsellor is somewhat confrontational, and one wonders why a "special study skills" facilitator would need to carry a concealed gun. In sum, however, this is a well-designed and produced package that provides many common-sense strategies for the student who needs to become more self-directed in his/her learning. Grades 12 and up / Ages 17 and up Katy Campbell-Bonar, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alta.