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 Factsheet argues that radio remains culturally significant because it continues to attract large audiences despite competition from things like streaming services.

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 industries tend to become concentrated in the hands of a few large organisations.

Hesmondhalgh:Media companies try to reduce risk and maximise profit.

Livingstone and Lunt:Regulation is needed due to the fact that media organisations have both economic and social responsibilities.

3) What is the definition of public service broadcasting?

Public Service Broadcasting is broadcasting that is designed to serve the public interest rather than primarily making a profit. 

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.

Universality:This is significant because BBC Radio is available to everyone in the UK regardless of their income or location which displays that the BBC targets a mainstream audience

Diversity:This is significant because BBC Radio provides a wide range of programmes,genres and viewpoints

Informing and Educating:This is significant because it has always been BBC mission statement

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

The Factsheet suggests that PSB radio faces challenges from streaming services.However it argues that PSB radio is likely to remain important because it provides trusted news and educational content for audiences.I agree with this view because i believe that younger audiences are not realitivly interested in the BBC and thats why they do not listen to the BBC.However I still think it is useful because the BBC provides informative and educational content worldwide.