The Undergraduate Student Government's Academic Assembly approved cable television for Nittany Hall rooms but stopped short of stamping its OK for all dorm rooms at its Monday night meeting.

The assembly is only one of several University organizations that must offer input before administrative approval, said Jerry Covert, associate dean of undergraduate education. The administration is also expected to seek input from the Faculty Senate and Housing and Food Services, he said.

Residents of Nittany Hall, the on-campus University apartments, cited the educational value of television, lack of cost and cable privileges of dorm students in suites, said John Cappone, a resident hall assistant in Nittany.

The assembly decided to investigate the academic impact of cable on study habits at other universities before making a decision.

Funding for cable installations was another concern of assembly members.

Installation in dorms beside Nittany would require funding and a minimum of three years to complete, Arndt said.

Students who do not want cable in their rooms should not have to pay for installation costs, said assembly member Ethan Eisner.

Nittany Hall resident Marty Davis (senior-general arts and sciences) said cable in residents' rooms would alleviate controversy about what to watch in the lounge. He added many students already have televisions and allowing cable would increase the number of stations from which to choose.

Pam Gerlock (senior-marketing) said although television would distract people from studying, she thinks it would be a great idea. Gerlock is a Tener Hall resident.

In the past, television opponents cited it would detract from the educational experience, Covert said.

Since Nittany Hall houses mostly juniors and seniors is equipped to receive cable, assembly members agreed those students should have the option to pay for cable. The University would incur no additional expense because the cable is already present, said Donald T. Arndt, director of housing.

But some members said that putting cable in all dorms would be another distraction for freshmen and sophomores.

Other members argued that part of the educational experience is learning to deal with distractions.

"We can't direct them but let's not mislead them," assembly member Danielle DiCiano said.