Introduction to Radio

 Read Media Factsheet #224 Understanding the Industrial Context of Radio. This will give you a wider perspective on industry contexts for radio with particular focus on the industry theorists (Hesmondhalgh, Curran & Seaton, Livingstone & Lunt). Answer the following questions: 

1) Read the first two pages of the factsheet. How does the Factsheet argue that radio still has cultural significance in the digital age? 

The hapless M.C Grindah says " Simple, it's an urban powerhouse slash radio station slash family unit". Radio doesn't need a massive audience and can be produced quite cheaply, it can champion local issues, new music talent, and can be broadcasted simply if you have a license. The medium of radio is a trail - blazer of the 20th Century and although digital media challenges it, it still is the main form of entertainment in developing or rural areas with no access to the internet - reaching millions of people. 

set. Radio content sparks the imagination in totally different way than visual mediums and this is why it still remains hugely popular with audiences. It accompanies us in our cars, homes, on our commutes, through voice activated speakers in our everyday lives 

2) Look at the page 4 section on media theories. Briefly summarise the ideas of Curran and Seaton, Hesmondhalgh and Livingstone and Lunt.

Curran and Seaton - Media output is concentrated in the hands of a few.

Hesmondhalgh - The media put profit before creativity.

Livingstone and Lunt - Media regulation should have a

consumer-based approach.

3) What is the definition of public service broadcasting?

Broadcasting intended for public benefit 

4) Look at the list of eight key principles for BBC Radio on page 6 of the factsheet. Choose the three you think are most significant and explain why.

Attention to minorities – inclusive and non-tokenistic

programming. - Some of the 5 British values is to have "Respect", "Tolerance" and "Individual Liberty", so I think that Britain's oldest and leading public service broadcaster should uphold these values.  

Direct funding and universality of payment – not for profit/

shareholders. - I believe for service or a product to be for the benefit of a group of peoples there should never be monetary value placed upon it. As the reason for it's existence can easily be skewed to make more profit. 

Guidelines that liberate rather than restrict – enabling

creativity. - I believe creative freedom is how artists and opinion leaders are born, as being able to create someone out of your own ideas and thoughts is an urge that needs to be satisfied in the human mind; a tool for growth and productivity. 

5) What does the Factsheet suggest is the future of PSB radio? Do you agree?

The BBC is surviving for the minute but they may have to change their license fee to a separate subscription to their stations in order to get young people listening again. I agree as I don't think their current system of payment is working or is appealing to the younger generation.