The Various Media in the Age of Information: Characteristics of Broadcast Media

Characteristics of Broadcast Media

Though both are considered broadcast media, radio and television differ in terms of the broadcast features or attributes.

Radio is a tool that uses voice, sound, and music. These three are called elements of radio. Because it lacks visual elements, producers of information in radio bank on these three elements to attract attention and convey the message.

Two types of radio format in terms of frequency

● AM (Amplitude Modulated) radio

● FM (Frequency Modulated) radio

AM radio offers variety stations that feature different program formats

1) Dramatic Programs

2) Non Dramatic Programs

● News and commentary

● Talk show

● Counselling

● Educational

● Informative

In FM radio, the majority of the station offer music and entertainment program formats. FM stations based their offerings on the type of audience they cater. Example, stations that cater the lower mass audience may offer classic music. The genre of music is important in FM stations. It is basically one of the factors that listeners consider in tuning into particular radio station.

Television on the other hand, can be considered as the most powerful medium in the mass communication. It has a complete feature. It offers both sight and sounds. It is more convenient to the audience in terms of exposure and participation.

Television has two main elements.

1. Audio

2. Video or Visual

In the current setting in the country, television programs can be accesses through the free channel and cable channel. The free channel offers a variety of TV programs that can be accessed without paying for the networks of cable service provider. Cable channel offers special programs that can be accessed by paying cable service provider.

Television program formats are almost similar to the program formats in radio.

a. Dramatic format

● Drama Series

● Drama Special

● Sitcom

b. Non Dramatic format

● News and public affairs program

● Talk show, debate, discussion program

● Contest, quiz show, discussion program

● Educational program

● Informative program

● Variety shows program

Some of media should learn the advantages and disadvantages of radio and television. Here are the tables that show the advantages and disadvantages of the two broadcast media.