disadvantages of radio essay

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Radio Advantages And Disadvantages | Advantages and Disadvantages of Radio, Pros and Cons

February 16, 2022 by Prasanna

Radio Advantages And Disadvantages: Contrasted with different media utilized by publicists, radio offers reasonableness, wide reach, interest group selectivity and convenient message conveyance. In any case, helpless mindfulness and discontinuity, an absence of visual allure and complex public purchasing processes are normal difficulties. Radio has gone through extensive changes in the past almost a quarter-century. It used to be the head mass mechanism for crowds and publicists.

Radio can convey advertising messages to an extremely huge number of crowds across the length and broadness of a specific geographic region. Before you submit your financial plan to radio, you’ll have to painstakingly think about its upsides and downsides.

Students can also find more  Advantages and Disadvantages  articles on events, persons, sports, technology, and many more.

What is Radio? Advantages and Disadvantages of Radio 2022

A radio is an electronic device that either makes or reacts to, radio waves. You might have effectively discovered that radio waves are essential for the bigger gathering of the electromagnetic waves, the gathering which additionally incorporates light, x-beams, even gamma beams. These waves can go through materials, similar to air or wood or glass or concrete, or even through the vacant vacuum of room. Indeed, they travel best however void space. A portion of the waves, like light, x-beams, and gamma beams can go sensibly well through shifting measures of water or metal. The radio waves we are keen on don’t enter water very well by any means, and just a limited quantity of metal will stop them.

Advantages of Radio

Disadvantages of radio, comparison table for advantages and disadvantages of radio, faq’s on pros and cons of radio.

The advantages of radio are given below:

• Selectivity: Radio offers a serious level of selectivity through geographic inclusion by countless stations and different program designs. Publicists can zero in their promotion messages on explicit crowds who communicate in various dialects in various regions, which in any case may not be open through different media.
• Cost-effectiveness: Cost benefits are very huge with radio as a publicizing medium. Radio time costs undeniably not as much as TV and the ads are very cheap to create. They require just the content of the business to be perused by the broadcaster, or a prerecorded message that the station can communicate. Publicists can utilize various stations to widen the scope and recurrence inside a restricted media spending plan.
• Adaptability: Among every one of the media, likely radio is the most adaptable as it has a short shutting period. Radio ads can as a rule be created in a somewhat brief time frame and whenever required, the promotion message can be changed practically not long before broadcast time. The same advertisement message can be changed in various dialects to suit economic situations.
• Mental Imagery: Radio promotion utilizes sound, and a significant benefit of the present circumstance is that it urges crowds to involve their creative mind in making pictures while handling the advertisement messages. As per Verne Gay, radio can build up pictures made by TV ads through picture moves. In this method, similar expressed words or jingles are utilized in the radio business as on TV. Picture move implies that when shoppers hear a similar advertisement message or jingle on the radio, they interface it to the TV plug and envision pictures. In this way, radio and TV advertisements support one another.

The disadvantages of radio are listed below:

• Absence of a Visual Element: The most major issue related to radio is the absence of a visual component. The radio sponsor can’t show or exhibit the item or utilize some other visual allure. As examined before, in making brand mindfulness, bundle recognizable proof regularly is basic for some, promoters considering the expanding number of huge retail locations in urban areas with self-administration. In rustic business sectors, where the education rates are very low, bundle distinguishing proof assumes a significant part in brand choice.
• Crowd Fragmentation: A large number of radio broadcasts make crowd fracture. The quantity of crowd tuned to a specific station is typically minuscule. Promoters who need to arrive at expansive market regions through radio, with language contrasts, need to delay on various stations arriving at explicit geographic regions.
• Restricted Research Data: The examination information on the radio is restricted contrasted with other significant promoting mediums like TV, papers, and magazines.
• Restricted Listener Attention: It is hard to draw in and hold radio audience members consideration regarding plugs. Program exchanging is continuous among audience members and they regularly miss all or a portion of the plugs. Conceivable outcomes of twisting in radio stations are high and this bothers the audience members – the outcome ads are missed.
• Clustered: With the expanding force of promoting, the mess has turned into an issue in publicizing media, and radio is no exemption. Business channels convey many advertisement messages consistently and it is turning out to be progressively hard for promotion messages to stand out for and hold crowds. Much relies upon the accuracy of the content composition, going with sounds and level of bending.

Question 1. What are the advantages of radio?

Answer: Radio promotions are regularly less expensive than TV advertisements. Sponsors can target audience members in view of time, geographic area, channel and program. Radio programming has a huge number of audience members across the country.

Question 2. What are the disadvantages of radio?

Answer: Like some other medium, radio also has specific impediments. These incorporate absence of a visual component, crowd discontinuity, restricted exploration information, restricted audience consideration, and mess.

Question 3. How radio is helpful for education?

Answer: Sharpen students’ listening abilities and incite their creative minds. They give exceptional data flow research discoveries in language. Expose educators to various instructing techniques. They give the instructor and youngsters/students a potential chance to effectively take part in the illustration.

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Pros and Cons of Radio

• Post author: Amos Gikunda
• Post published: September 14, 2023
• Post category: Media
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Radio has been a popular medium of communication and entertainment for decades, offering a range of benefits and drawbacks. In the following list, we will explore pros and cons of radio, covering its wide reach, accessibility, variety of programming, as well as limitations such as lack of visual content and signal interference.

• Wide Reach:  Radio has a broad coverage, reaching listeners in remote areas where other forms of media may be unavailable, ensuring widespread dissemination of information.
• Accessibility:  It is easily accessible to anyone with a radio receiver, requiring no internet connection or subscription, allowing people with limited resources to stay connected.
• Portable:  Radios are portable and can be carried anywhere, enabling users to listen on the go, making it a convenient medium for outdoor activities.
• Real-Time Updates:  Radio provides immediate news and updates, delivering crucial information in real-time, allowing listeners to stay informed about current events.
• Local Content:  Radio stations often focus on local news, events, and culture, fostering a sense of community and providing relevant information to the local audience.
• Multitasking:  Radio allows listeners to engage in other activities simultaneously, such as driving or working, enabling them to stay entertained or informed while performing daily tasks.
• Variety of Programming:  There is a wide range of radio programs available, including music, talk shows, news, sports, and educational content, catering to diverse interests and preferences.
• Music Discovery:  Radio introduces listeners to new artists, genres, and songs they may not have discovered otherwise, expanding their musical horizons.
• Cost-Effective:  Listening to the radio is generally free, apart from the initial cost of purchasing a radio receiver, making it an affordable entertainment option.
• Entertainment:  Radio offers a form of entertainment that can be enjoyed by individuals of all ages, providing a source of joy and relaxation.
• Less Screen Time:  Unlike visual media, radio allows listeners to enjoy content without staring at a screen, reducing eye strain and providing a break from screen-based activities.
• Local Advertisements:  Radio allows local businesses to reach their target audience effectively through advertising, supporting the local economy.
• Emergency Broadcasting:  During emergencies or natural disasters, radio serves as a reliable source of vital information and instructions, helping to ensure public safety.
• Language Diversity:  Radio stations cater to various languages and communities, providing programming in multiple languages, promoting inclusivity and cultural diversity.
• Background Noise:  The constant hum of a radio can provide a soothing background noise, promoting relaxation, focus, and a sense of companionship.
• Nostalgia:  Radio has a nostalgic appeal, reminding listeners of simpler times and personal memories, invoking feelings of warmth and familiarity.
• Platform for Artists:  Radio provides a platform for artists, musicians, and emerging talents to showcase their work, giving them exposure and opportunities for recognition.
• Personal Connection:  Radio hosts and DJs build personal connections with their listeners, fostering a sense of intimacy and familiarity, creating a bond between the audience and the presenter.
• No Interruptions:  Unlike online streaming platforms, radio broadcasts do not pause for buffering or interruptions due to network issues, ensuring uninterrupted listening.
• Weather Updates:  Radio stations provide regular weather forecasts, particularly useful for individuals without access to the internet or television, assisting in planning and preparedness.
• Lack of Visual Content:  Radio lacks visual elements, limiting the overall experience and preventing the display of visual information, relying solely on audio communication.
• Limited Interactivity:  Listeners cannot interact directly with radio programs, unlike social media or streaming platforms, reducing opportunities for active participation.
• Signal Interference:  Poor reception or signal interference can result in distorted sound quality or loss of transmission, affecting the overall listening experience.
• Limited Control:  Listeners have limited control over the content and sequence of songs or programs played on the radio, requiring them to adapt to preset schedules and playlists.
• Audio Quality:  Radio broadcasts may suffer from lower audio quality compared to other media formats, potentially affecting the clarity and enjoyment of the content.
• Repetition:  Radio stations often repeat songs and programs, leading to listener fatigue and boredom, diminishing the freshness of the listening experience.
• No On-Demand Content:  Unlike streaming platforms, radio does not provide on-demand content, requiring listeners to adhere to fixed schedules, limiting flexibility in content consumption.
• Information Overload:  With multiple stations and programs available, finding relevant content can be overwhelming for listeners, making it challenging to navigate through the vast array of options.
• Lack of Visual Context:  News or information without visual context can be challenging to understand fully, as listeners rely solely on audio cues and descriptions.
• Limited Music Selection:  Radio stations have a limited selection of songs and genres, which may not cater to diverse musical tastes, potentially excluding niche or less popular genres.
• Geographic Limitations:  The reach of radio stations is limited by their broadcast range, making them inaccessible to some remote areas, restricting access to information and entertainment.
• Background Noise:  In noisy environments, such as crowded public spaces, the sound from a radio may become difficult to hear, affecting the clarity of the content.
• Advertisement Overload:  Radio broadcasts often include a significant number of advertisements, interrupting the listening experience and potentially becoming repetitive or intrusive.
• Time Constraints:  Listeners have to tune in at specific times to catch their favorite shows or programs, requiring them to adjust their schedules accordingly.
• Lack of Visual Promotion:  Artists and businesses cannot visually promote their work or products on radio, limiting marketing opportunities that rely on visual aesthetics.
• Limited Audience Engagement:  Radio lacks interactive features like comments or likes, reducing opportunities for audience engagement and interaction with the content.
• Competition with Other Media:  Radio faces competition from television, streaming platforms, and podcasts, which offer more visual and interactive experiences, potentially impacting its audience base.
• Language Barriers:  Listeners who are not proficient in the language of a radio station may face difficulties understanding the content, affecting inclusivity and accessibility.
• Dependence on Electricity:  Radio requires a power source, and during power outages, access to information may be lost, limiting its reliability in certain situations.
• Limited Educational Resources:  Compared to other media, radio may offer fewer educational resources or specialized content for learning purposes, potentially restricting its use as an educational tool.
• Accessibility
• Real-Time Updates
• Local Content
• Multitasking
• Variety of Programming
• Music Discovery
• Cost-Effective
• Entertainment
• Less Screen Time
• Local Advertisements
• Emergency Broadcasting
• Language Diversity
• Background Noise
• Platform for Artists
• Personal Connection
• No Interruptions
• Weather Updates
• Lack of Visual Content
• Limited Interactivity
• Signal Interference
• Limited Control
• Audio Quality
• No On-Demand Content
• Information Overload
• Lack of Visual Context
• Limited Music Selection
• Geographic Limitations
• Advertisement Overload
• Time Constraints
• Lack of Visual Promotion
• Limited Audience Engagement
• Competition with Other Media
• Language Barriers
• Dependence on Electricity
• Limited Educational Resources

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10 Advantages and Disadvantages of Radio

Radio (Remote Audio Discrete Integrated Oscillation). A technology of communicating and signaling using radio waves is what we call radio. These waves are electromagnetic with a frequency minimum of 30 Hz to a maximum of 300 GHz. A transmitter (an electronic device) connected to an antenna generates these waves and, the radio receiver connected to an antenna receives them. Today’s technology uses radio in radar, remote control, radio navigation, remote sensing, and most commonly in radio communication. Television telecasting, radio broadcasting, mobiles, wireless networking, and satellite communication are few examples of radio communication.

There are so many means to get information but, we cannot overlook the importance of radio. You can get 24 hours updated, reliable information local or all across the border through this medium. At the time of emergency, when electricity-driven technology fails, radio has a crucial role because it can be operated manually and by battery. Most importantly, for 80 years, it has been an easy means of communication. Like any other transmission medium, radio has pros and cons and, the future of any technology is dependent on these features. Let us see the pros of radio.

Table of Contents

Advantages of Radio

It is a powerful medium with good communication potential. Though technology has advanced today, there are still some advantages of radio. Let us discuss some of them.

1. Portability

It is a great advantage of radio which allows you to listen to it while driving, doing house core, shopping, walking and many more. It does not occupy space, reduces stress, keeps entertaining you as background music. Because it is cheap, you can spend the whole day with it at no cost. The portability feature is what journalists look for. An individual can cover a live event, or enter a conflict zone, to get audio coverage with a simple smartphone because radio waves support it. This wireless communication implies on all types of vehicles, submarines, battleships, aircraft, and so on.

2. Mass Coverage

Radio promises to inform, propagate, educate, and entertain a large population at a time. No doubt technology has evolved with time, but even today, radio continues to influence and relate to the audience as it used to, long back. Compared to other means of communication, it is easy to connect to people in urban areas through radio. Yet another plus point is that you can hear it in any regional language because the radio channels differ while moving through different regions. This medium covers the local market to spread a piece of important information. Numerous people prefer this medium of entertainment over others.

3. Entertainment

Radio turns off to be an easy way of entertainment, diverting people from worries, stress, and troubles. It easily connects to people because it is a live broadcast and hence, needs an identity and the voice of a speaker (be it announcer or RJ). It is a tool with lots of emotions like warmth, pain, and laughter. In the fast-moving life, people wish to collect all the information regarding politics, international affairs, and local news while doing main work and, radio fulfills the need as it is a mobile and convenient medium. It enhances your imagination power because you listen to the words only.

If you are a music lover, there are numerous free music stations on radio available for you to start listening.

4. The Chief source of advertisement

Advertisers find radio affordable, cheap sources to target audiences with their products. Radio signals can cross the mountains and oceans and widely reach the audience in time. To promote a particular ad, advertisers focus on the audience of a region and select a product for advertisement, which would not be possible with other modes of communication. In this way, they cover many people at a time.

5. Radio is free

There are thousands of free radio stations available to listen to almost anything you want. Music, movies, podcasts, documentaries, you name it, anything is available on radio. If you can adjust with the lack of video, radios are extremely entertaining to listen to. Instead of paying subscription fees to the video streaming services, you can turn on the radio and start listening. You can follow our guide on how to listen to radio for free to know more about the process.

Disadvantages of Radio

This is an interpretation that radio is a weak source because it is assumed to have little expertise. That adds some cons to the oldest mean of communication.

1. Lack of Visualization

Radio is a blind medium that offers only audio communication. Unlike television, lack of visualization is unable to connect the people to a product. Visual effects appear to be convincing than audio. Especially in rural areas where people are less educated, seeing an ad is more impactful than only hearing it. Audiences skip to other radio channels during commercials because they cannot find any attractive features. The characteristic of radio stations determines the sponsors, which in turn decide the future of its success.

2. Lack of attention

Because it is an easy-going medium of communication, people don’t usually get or remain connected to it for a long time. While driving or cooking, if you are listening to the radio, you don’t pay complete attention. However, another medium like television is more efficient in connecting the viewers strongly. Everyone’s imagination power varies, so one may become judgmental before hearing a message.

3. Health Hazards

Radio waves are harmful to the human brain. Too much exposure causes headaches, nausea, and disorientation. Remaining 24/7 surrounded by radio waves operated phone, Wi-Fi at the office and home, television remote is not good. It is noteworthy that sometimes radio waves of two different gadgets interfere and cause damage, like in aircraft and phone gadgets. The driver with too much involvement in radio may meet an accident due to lack of concentration on driving.

4. Non-innovative

Radio lacks self-promotion. Few phone-in contests are not enough to hold the listeners. It is not able to withstand the competitors of other means of communication. Lack of visual effect is not an excuse to keep the radio out of the line. Talk programs like that on television need to be added to it to make it more attractive. Consistency in quality is also not maintained. Radio channels are limited and localized, which is a disadvantage for many reasons.

5. Signal issues

Because radio works based on receiving signals, sometimes you may find it difficult to tune to a specific station. There will also be signal issues, resulting in noisy audio. This will not be a problem for every single radio channels. But if a specific channel that you really like listening to has signal issues, it could be irritating at times. You might even want to try moving the antenna or buy a better one in order to get the desired audio quality.

Traditionally, radio originated with its special way of entertaining. In the due course of time, the audio content got digital enhancement with regional stations, news, shows, and series. This helped radio to maintain its popularity and continued to amuse us in a way, unlike video content. The advantages and disadvantages of the radio together make it a unique medium of communication.

Advantages and disadvantages of radio (communication media)

The radio is a means of communication based on the sending of audio waves. It emerged more than a century ago. Although today it is not a mass medium, radio is still listened to by many people.

In recent years, radio has been able to adapt to the new digital world through podcasts (audio files on different topics that can be downloaded or listened to online). The podcast phenomenon has had a great growth in recent years, getting the new generations to listen to talk shows and debates on their favorite topics.

Advantages and disadvantages of radio

In the following article we are going to show a series of pros and cons of radio versus other media.

Advantages of radio

• Immediacy. It was the first means of communication to manage to transmit information instantly. No need to wait.
• Cheap . It is a means of communication with low production cost. It is also easier to get a radio set than a television. On the Internet there are many free radio stations.
• It stimulates the imagination. The information is transmitted through sound without image, which encourages the imagination of the listener.
• Very varied offerings . There are podcasts on all kinds of topics, from the most common topics such as sports or current news to more current topics such as video games. There are more diverse opinions.

Disadvantages of radio

• The pace of the announcer may not be suitable for the listener. This can lead the listener to confusion or getting lost.
• Misinterpreting the message. If the intended message is not conveyed clearly it can confuse the listener. In addition, it is difficult to talk about complex topics that may
• Unattractive. It may be unappealing to users looking for attractive stimuli.

10 Advantages and disadvantages of Radio Broadcasting

Radio broadcasting is a method of transmitting audio signals (typically speech and music) to a wide audience over radio waves using radio frequency (RF) technology. is known as radio broadcasting. The radio frequencies lies from 3 Hz to 300 GHz. It is a form of mass communication that has been a popular medium for disseminating news, entertainment, music, and information for nearly a century.

The common modulation schemes used for radio broadcasting are AM and FM. Hence there are two types of radio broadcasting viz. AM and FM. The AM radio system uses maximum bandwidth of 10KHz while FM radio system uses maximum bandwidth of 200KHz. As a result AM carriers are spaced 10 KHz apart while FM carriers are spaced 200 KHz apart.

AM radio broadcasting system uses RF frequencies from 540 to 1600 KHz with IF of 455 KHz while FM radio broadcasting system uses RF frequencies from 88 to 108 MHz with IF of 10.7 MHz. Now-a-days radio sets are available in mobile, tablets, smartphones etc. Due to this, it has become more popular among people. Moreover there are many applications which provides radio station tuning with ease rather than cumbersome manual knob based tuning. The figure-1 depicts self explanatory block diagram of the radio system with transmitter and receiver parts. Refer Radio Broadcasting basics >> .

Let us understand how radio broadcasting works : • Audio Source: Audio source provides audio signal to be broadcasted using this radio system. Audio signal can be pre-recorded program or live studio recording or live talk show or music concert or sports event etc. • Audio Processing: The audio signal is processed to ensure clear audio at the receiver end. Hence various operations are performed which include adjustment of volume, noise reduction etc. • Modulation: The processed audio signal is modulated using carrier wave frequency. It involves modification of amplitude or frequency of carrier wave in accordance with audio signal amplitude/frequency as per AM or FM modulation scheme respectively. The modulation scheme helps to encode audio information onto the radio wave. • Transmission: The modulated radio signal is transmitted with sufficient power level over long distances with the help of antennas. • Reception: People with radio receivers (i.e. radio units) tune to a specific frequency or radio station to receive the transmitted signal. The receiver demodulates the radio signal and separates the audio information from the modulated carrier frequency wave. • Amplification and Playback: The audio signal is then amplified and played back using speakers, making it audible to the listener.

AM and FM have their own unique characteristics, with AM being more susceptible to interference but having a longer range, and FM offering better sound quality with a shorter range. Additionally, modern radio broadcasting can also take place through digital radio standards like HD Radio and DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting), which provide improved sound quality and additional data services.

Benefits or advantages of Radio Broadcasting

Following are the 10 advantages of Radio Broadcasting : 1. It is used to cover mass reach and selective reach of audiences. 2. Cost is less compare to other services such as television or print media. 3. Radios are widely available and affordable. 4. Radios can deliver news and information in real time providing immediate updates during emergencies or breaking news events. 5. Radio stations can cater to local communities and provide content tailored to regional interests and languages. 6. Radio engages audience's imagination which allows listeners to visualize stories, characters and events based solely on audio cues. 7. Radios are portable which allows users to tune in while on the move. 8. Radio introduces listeners to new music and artists which facilitates music discovery. 9. Radio helps in delivering advertising to the users. Radio ads can be highly effective which will help in increasing revenue for the advertising companies. 10. Radio has long history and strong presence in media.

Drawbacks or disadvantages of Radio Broadcasting

Following are the 10 disadvantages of Radio Broadcasting : 1. Radio is a one-way communication medium, lacking the interactivity of the internet or social media. 2. Radio relies solely on audio content, limiting its ability to convey visual information or multimedia content. 3. The radio industry faces competition from other media, especially digital streaming services and podcasts. 4. AM radio, in particular, is susceptible to signal interference from atmospheric conditions or electronic devices, impacting reception quality. 5. Radio cannot convey facial expressions, body language, or visual aids, which can limit the communication of certain information. 6. Limited bandwidth on the radio spectrum can lead to congestion and the need for frequency allocation and management. 7. The proliferation of radio stations can fragment the audience, making it challenging for advertisers to reach specific demographics. 8. Radio advertising revenue can be sensitive to economic downturns, impacting the financial stability of radio stations. 9. Radio broadcasting may not cater to diverse language communities, limiting its accessibility to non-English-speaking audiences. This has been overcome by local language based stations in many countries. 10. Traditional radio faces challenges in keeping up with digital technology trends, including streaming and podcasting.

Conclusion : Radio broadcasting offers several advantages, including its wide reach, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility, making it a powerful medium for reaching diverse audiences, especially in remote areas. It provides real-time updates, caters to local communities and engages listeners' imaginations. However, it also comes with disadvantages. It has limited interactivity, lacks visual content, faces competition from digital media and can suffer from signal interference and economic sensitivity, requiring adaptation to stay relevant in a rapidly changing media landscape.

RF(Radio Frequency) RELATED LINKS

Advantages and disadvantages of other wireless technologies, what is difference between, rf and wireless terminologies.

21 Advantages & Disadvantages of New Media (College Essay Ideas)

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

When writing a college essay on new media, make sure you cover the following points. These points can help you add depth and detail to your essay.

To write a strong essay, I recommend paraphrasing the following points and turning each point into a full paragraph . Provide clear examples and reference a source for each paragraph. You can use the sources listed below, but remember to use your college’s referencing style when citing your sources.

There are both pros and cons of new media. So it’s important to give a well-rounded analysis that shows you have considered your essay from both old and new media perspectives.

Old Media vs New Media

Here’s the difference between old and new media:

• Old media are media that were owned and controlled by large companies and disseminated through one-way communication methods. Examples include newspapers, film and television.
• New media are media that can be produced and distributed digitally by anyone with an internet connection and generally involve two-way communication. Examples include blogs, social media (like Facebook and Twitter) and online forums.

My favorite definition is from Logan (2010, p. 4) :

“The term ‘new media’ will generally refer to those digital media that are interactive, will incorporate two-way communication, and involve some form of computing.”

New media like Facebook and Twitter have made communication, socialization, sharing and interacting easier for people with an internet connection. We can now not only be the consumers of information but also information producers . Sharing news, thoughts and opinions to a global audience is no longer something only the rich and powerful can do. Anyone with a Twitter handle how has global reach.

Advantages of Old Media

1. Old media have broad reach. Old media were designed as a form of mass communication that was to be broadcast to the masses. From the invention of the printing press in 1440 to the 1980s, print media such as newspapers, then radio, and finally television, followed this same broadcast formula. One message was broadcast to an entire population of a nation. People of all ages got their news from a small amount of publications that had extremely broad reach across a population.

2. Urgent information is broadly dispersed. A follow-up benefit of this broad reach of old media was that information of public importance was distributed rapidly. Still today, when a public disaster occurs, most people turn to old media of television and radio to get important information from authorities. This information is often controlled by, distributed by, and policed by the government so everyone gets the same information about how to protect themselves during times of emergency.

3. The people who control news dissemination are authorities and experts. Old media has important gatekeepers (Carr, 2012) to ensure the quality and authenticity of information. Published information is parsed by editors and producers to ensure it is true. People along the information supply train are trained and experienced journalists, and their editors provide checks and balances to what is distributed in newspaper, radio and television broadcasts. By contrast, new media can be produced and disseminated by anybody with an internet connection, leading to misinformation. This is one possible con of the internet .

4. Extreme views do not spread easily. Because of the control that gatekeepers exert over old media, unfettered media bias , extreme and radical opinions are curtailed. Untrue information can be prevented and filtered and offensive information can be bleeped out to protect children. Unfortunately with the rise of social media, our world has become increasingly polarized and radicalized (Thompson, 2011) . This is largely due to the fact those gatekeepers aren’t there to provide quality control for information anymore.

5. A sense of community and social cohesion develops. Benedict Anderson (1983) theorized that the emergence of the printing press led to the concept of the ‘nation’. He said that when people of a nation all started to read the same information each day, they began to see themselves as a community. Before then, our sense of community was to people in our villages. After that, we saw ourselves as an “imagined community” who share a common set of values and culture.

Related: Imagined Communities Pros and Cons

Disadvantages of Old Media

6. Minority views can be marginalized. There is extensive literature that shows that people of color, women, and other minorities have had their views curtailed and silenced in old media. Instead, dominant views are perpetuated by old media. Critical theory and post-structuralism (inspired in large part by Michel Foucault) have long stressed that media has produced unfair stereotypes and narratives about minorities. Old media were complicit in the reproduction and normalization of ‘dominant discourses’, and have long silenced minority or unpopular opinions.

7 The government and oligarchs often control the message. Throughout the 20th Century, the ability to share information was controlled by a small group of people. This helped them to maintain their power. In Manufacturing Consent , Herman and Chomsky (2010) highlight how corporate America and media oligarchs (such as Rupert Murdoch) have had a mutually beneficial relationship where they perpetuated untruths and propaganda in order to maintain their positions of power in society. To a greater extreme, in socialist nations, governments literally censor the ‘old’ press and only allow favorable media coverage.

8. Old media don’t get much instant feedback. Today, when you broadcast something on the internet, it gets comments and re-tweets to provide the writer with instantaneous feedback. This isn’t the case with traditional media like television , which broadcast information without an instantaneous response (one exception might be talk back radio). Interestingly, many major communication models in the 20th Century that had a linear structure (e.g. the Laswell model and the Shannon-Weaver model ) are largely outdated due to the two-way communication features of new media.

9. People don’t listen to or respect old media anymore. The declining trust in expertise and authority is widely a result of the emergence of new media. As previously marginalized and even extreme voices have been magnified by new media, people have started turning away from old media and considering it to be elitist and untrue. Whether these claims are accurate or not, the declining trust in old media means it doesn’t have the clout it once did.

Advantages of New Media

10. Information production is no longer just for the elites. In the era of blogs, social media , and instant communication, elites and the powerful no longer hold a monopoly on mass dissemination of information. Anyone with an internet connection can now have their beliefs and opinions broadcast to anyone around the world who wants to listen. This removal of gatekeepers has allowed us to become not just information consumers, but also information producers.

11. People can find their ‘tribe’. With the rise of the internet, people can connect to people who share their interests from around the world. This has led to the rise of a multitude of internet subcultures where people get together on forums and associate with their ‘tribe’. Now, subculture groups (goths, LGBTQI youth, punks, etc.) who feel out of place among their friends from school can go online and connect with people who share their experiences.

12. National borders are less of a barrier. In the 20th Century, our ability to communicate was often restricted to people in our local community. This limited who we could associate with. The rise of dispersed tribes could have the effect of undermining traditional cultural groups (based around national identities, etc.) and instead allow us to link up with our dispersed sub-cultural groups around the world.

13. Minority views and opinions can gain traction. People from minority groups that were traditionally excluded from old mass media platforms have found platforms to share their opinions online. Together, they have been able to form groups large enough to have their voices heard. Silenced voices have risen up – from the #metoo movement to the Arab Spring – to change our world for the better.

14. We can stay in touch. Prior to social media platforms like Facebook, we often lost touch with people form out past. But now, thanks to social media, we can watch people from a distance and share our major achievements, milestones and life changes to stay in touch with people on our distant periphery.

15. News is instantaneous. Thanks to news apps, Twitter, etc., news spreads faster than ever. We no longer need to wait until the 6pm news to access our news. As part of this instantaneous access to knowledge, we now have what’s known as the “24 hour news cycle”. Consumers have an insatiable appetite for news, so new media have to pump out an ongoing stream of ever more sensationalized news articles.

16. News producers get instant feedback. As soon as a piece of news is pumped out, tweets fling back and comments are provided to show feedback. Digital analytics software identifies which headlines get the most clicks and can show how long people spend reading each article . These qualitative and quantitative big data coalesce to help news producers to create content that best serves their consumers.

Disadvantages of New Media

17. Misinformation spreads like wildfire. Without traditional gatekeepers of knowledge such as editors and publishing houses, there is nobody controlling which information is disseminated. Misinformation has become widespread in the 21st Century thanks to social media (Allcott, Gentzkow & Yu, 2019). This causes fringe conspiracy theories and even doctored images to influence people’s political and social views.

18. We can live in an ideological bubble. New media often allow us to ‘subscribe’ to our own news networks and favorite information producers. Without the need to have widespread mass appeal, new media target dispersed niche and ideological markets. Conservatives begin to only consume conservative media; and liberals only consume liberal media. People begin to only reinforce their personal views, causing social polarization.

19. There is fierce media competition. While in the past there were three or four major news organizations, now there are diverse and numerous sources for news. Small news websites with fresh takes for niche audiences popped up, crowding the market with information. In this crowded media market, there is competition in all niches, and brands need to have a fresh take to get attention.

20. There is a wider customer base for companies large and small. While competition is more fierce than ever, there is also a bigger customer base than ever before. Websites target global audiences and have global reach. A savvy media producer or social media marketer can expand their market globally – beyond what traditional media was generally capable of.

21. Children can access inappropriate information more easily. New media gives on-demand access to information. While in the past adult content was broadcast late at night, today it can be accessed day and night. Scholars like Neil Postman (1985) argue that there is a “disappearance of childhood” as a result of how media is changing. As children have greater access to adult information, the innocence of childhood is being decayed earlier than ever.

For your essay you might have to take a position on whether new media has been a ‘positive’ or a ‘negative’ force in society. In reality, there is no clear answer here: it’s been both positive and negative, in different ways. But we can clearly see that it has changed society significantly. It plays a huge role in political campaigns and changing how companies communicate with potential consumers. By outlining all the different facets of the advantages and disadvantages of new media, you can show the person grading your paper your deep and nuanced knowledge of the impact of new media on society.

Allcott, H., Gentzkow, M., & Yu, C. (2019). Trends in the diffusion of misinformation on social media.  Research & Politics ,  6 (2).

Anderson, B. (2006).  Imagined communities: Reflections on the origin and spread of nationalism . New York: Verso books.

Carr, J. (2012). No laughing matter: the power of cyberspace to subvert conventional media gatekeepers.  International journal of communication ,  6 , 21.

Herman, E. S., & Chomsky, N. (2010).  Manufacturing consent: The political economy of the mass media . New York: Random House.

Kellner, D., Dines, G., & Humez, J. M. (2011). Gender, race, and class in media: A critical reader. New York: Sage.

Logan, R. K. (2010).  Understanding new media: extending Marshall McLuhan . New York: Peter Lang.

Postman, N., (1985). The disappearance of childhood. Childhood Education ,  61 (4), pp.286-293.

Thompson, R. (2011). Radicalization and the use of social media.  Journal of strategic security ,  4 (4), 167-190.

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Radio: Use in Education, Advantages & Limitations

Contents in the Article

Radio: Use in Education| Advantages & Limitations

What is Radio?

Radio is an effective audio aid device that is capable of providing valuable assistance to the teacher in the classroom by presenting useful information and learning experiences to a large number of students.

According to R. G. Raymonds,

“Radio is the most significant medium for education. As a supplement to classroom teaching its possibilities are almost unlimited. Its teaching possibilities are not confined to the five or six hours of the school day. It is available from early morning till long after midnight. By utilizing the rich educational and cultural offerings of the radio, children and adults in communities, however remote, have access to the best of the world’s stores of knowledge and art. Some day its use as an educational instrument will be as common place as textbooks and blackboards.

Radio broadcasts are of two types:

• General broadcast providing general information about the events and happenings assimilating knowledge about the worlds, culture and life.
• Educational broadcast specifically prepared and broadcast for serving the cause of education and classroom in the form of radio lesson, lectures, etc.

Use of Radio in Classroom Education

The educational broadcasting services offered by the AIR and other radio channels may render valuable assistance in the classroom instructional programme. For the desired outcomes, it needs a careful effort on the part of teachers.

Following things should be done by teachers to utilize radio broadcasting in the classroom:

• The teacher must acquaint themselves with the schedule and programmes of these broadcasts through the relevant available literature.
• They must carefully think and plan the integration of the schedule broadcasting programme with his classroom teaching.
• The teacher must try to prepare his students as adequately and possible educationally as well as psychologically to get the knowledge and experiences properly which is imparted through a radio broadcast.
• They should seek proper control of the environmental situations, physical conditions and learning environment for the proper utilization of radio broadcasting. They should be sure that all the students hear a clear signal. The set should be properly located. The room conditions should be favorable with a minimum of distraction and outside disturbances.
• The radio broadcasting should have an adequate follow-up programme. There should be a lively discussion over the learning objectives achieved through the broadcasting. The learning gaps and difficulties in understanding the radio presentation should come into limelight. The actions and reactions occurred in the minds of the students should be properly responded and helped for enriching their experiences and furthering their education.

Advantages / Educational Advantages

The educational advantages of radio broadcasting are as follows:

• Radio broadcasting makes it possible to listen to the lectures, talks, discussions and seminar proceedings of educational interest in which renowned authors, educationalist, leading scholars and other important personalities may participate. Such contact provides immense educational and psychological value to the students.
• Through its planned and sequenced classroom lessons on various topics related to school subjects, radio broadcasting may provide much assistance to the classroom teacher in realizing the instructional objectives.
• Radio broadcasting is a potent source of education as these are capable of integrating education with the real life experience on one hand and healthy entertainment and source of pleasure on the other. The students can be easily motivated to listen to the radio talks and thus derive the desired educational benefits.
• As a mass media, radio broadcasting is a highly economical source of educational instructions. Its advantage may reach uniformly to millions of its listeners by breaking distance and time barriers and the costing is almost negligible.
• Radio broadcasting has capacity of solving various problems in the field of education arising out of the shortage of man-material resources. There is a shortage of good textbooks, well-planned instructional programmes, suitable instructional devices and aids and competent teachers. The learner population is increasing day by day. The courses of instructions are widening. It is not possible to provide the benefits of education to such a large number of learners with the desired efficiency without the aid of an effective medium like radio broadcasting.

Limitations of Radio in Education

Some of the drawbacks of the radio broadcasting are as follows:

• The educational value of radio broadcasting depends upon the use of the sense of hearing. Students may become uninterested and non-attentive after listening continuously to the broadcasting.
• It reduces the task of teaching and learning as a one way communication. Therefore, students have very little opportunity to participate in the instructional activity which occurs in a passive way.
• It is difficult to schedule programmes which will be acceptable to the majority of the students. Therefore, teachers and students find it hard to integrate these programmes with their own instructional activities in the school.
• The students and teacher both face difficulties in having adequate preparation for the utilization of off-the-air broadcasts on account of the scarcity of adequate pre-information, and manual or guides.

However, these limitations can be overcome with a little more efforts on the part of the teachers and the concerned authorities. It we utilize the full potential of the radio , it may found to be very beneficial as an instructional tool for the teaching of any subject.

Important links

• Norm-Referenced and Criterion-Referenced Measurement
• Overhead Projector (OHP): Mechanism & Use in Education
• Evaluation: Types and their Characteristics- with pdf
• Concept and Need of Continuous and comprehensive evaluation (CCE)
• Statistics- Meaning | Definition | Characteristics and Aims
• Statistics: Nature | Importance & Limitation with pdf
• Graphical representation of Data: Meaning & Importance
• Measurement of Central Tendency: Mean Median Mode

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Band 6+: compare the advantages and disadvantages of the radio, books, and the television as media for communicating information. state which you concider to be the most effective.

Media has always been an effective way to communicate or to spread ideas and information as far as it was invented and its power only grew as it became more common. Yet in this essay information will be the main topic issued through books, radio and television.

At first, before radio and television, books were the main resource of information. However, books have several disadvantages regarding radio and television. These are mostly books being a stable resource of information for the reason of them not being available to be revised or changed. Also access to any information in a book is more limited in some way. To access any information in a book, the person has to have the book or borrow it from a library. But, unfortunately having access to the book will not be enough, this person also has to be able to read the book. Against its disadvantages it has some advantages too. Most importantly, the information in books is usually more accurate than the other information in the other possible resources. The reason behind this is that the information goes through a more throughout process which provides accurate information at higher rates. Considering these conclusions books are not quite accessible yet more accurate.

With the invention of radio, a new way for communicating information was born. Radio is more accessible after they became more common. Although today it is not used daily or common as it was 30-40 years before, still they are accessible and easy to get. Regarding books radio has many advantages as it being portable a static resource of information. Usually the broad casts are live and they can be used at any time (even in disasters). However it has one particular disadvantage. As the broad casts being live limits the controlling phase of information which can cause to a horrible trouble.

As the last resource there is the television which is kind of a radio with visuals. The television has almost the same advantages and disadvantages with slight differences. One of the important differences is that unlike radio, the TV is not portable and not accessible as much. Yet it has the advantage of the visuals. The visual sensation makes the tv much more interesting compared to the radio.

With the consideration of all and comparing with each other, the radio would be the best option for information regarding it being static, portable, accessible, easy to use and vocal. Against its advantages, the one disadvantage can be set aside and even can be fixed with strict controls.

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IELTS Writing Task 2/ Essay Topics with sample answer.

Ielts essay # 17 - compare advantages and disadvantages of three media for communicating information, ielts writing task 2/ ielts essay:, compare the advantages and disadvantages of three of the following as media for communicating information. state which three you consider the most effective., idea generation for this ielts essay:.

• Comics provide information in the most interesting and interactive way to the readers.
• It is more efficient for kids who are yet to start reading big books.
• Comics are often very effective to convey information and to produce an aesthetic response to the readers.
• Readers of comics find it very easy to remember the information delivered by stories and cartoons in comics. It is less time consuming to read comics.
• Comics provide information to the reader in the most interesting and interactive way.   
• Comics represent the oldest continuous form of communication in history and a much-revered form of communication between generations.
• Comics can transcend language and cultural boundaries.
• Comics and comics’ techniques could be used in various types of business and technical communications. When Google launched its Chrome Web Browser the accompanying technical documentation was a widely distributed comics. The visitors guide for the European Organization for Nuclear research is also comics and that proves the efficiency of comics to educate people.
• Comics readers do not have to spend a lot of time on reading. This is preferred by many readers who do not like reading pages after pages.
• While reading comics readers often do not pay attention to the main information due to irrelevant cartoon or story.
• It can be a waste of time for readers who wanted to receive useful information from comics.
• Comics are often published based on pure fiction and imagination and might have negative effects on the psychology of young kids.
• However, because of the simplicity of comic books, they can only communicate short information.
• Comics are not as much informative as books are.
• Books are very instructive and effective in conveying information as they comprise the writer's thought and life experience and are usually written over a longer period of time.
• The book is a significant media to receive information ranging from basic skills to professional knowledge.
• Reading books help us to nourish our mind and keep us moving forward in a positive direction.
• A reader always has a wide range of choices to pick a book based on his/ her interest.  
• Books are everlasting while the basic formation of other media changes a lot over the time.
• Readers pay more attentions while reading a book and that is why they can learn better from reading.
• Books are the accumulated version of history, knowledge, experience and wisdom. Books have endless offerings and stories to bring out the best of creative readers.
• Reading books can give us an insight into many different cultures, and civilisations.
• The secret to a successful life is knowledge and information. The answers to nearly all our problems and query are documented in texts somewhere.
• Books can stimulate and excite a reader’s imagination as well as arouse his curiosity, thus bringing out the creative oneself.
• Books help to articulate our thoughts and reading books improve our vocabulary and communication skill.
• Reading the book is like peeking into the minds of the greatest people - A book is like a conversation with the writer and reading many books gives us an insight into the thinking process of different writers.
• Intercultural understanding will be developed by reading more related books. Humans will become more familiar with demographic of nations as they read more books about them.
• Individuals will have a better comprehension, grammar, communication skill, and more variety of vocabularies.
• Readers always have a wide range of options to read books that would entertain and interest them.
• Books are portable and people can access it from almost anywhere.
• Books are not always attractive to many people. For those people, books are not the greatest source of information and knowledge.
• It required more patience and time to read books.
• Book production requires cutting down trees, and that has a negative impact on our environment.
• Information presented on books could be outdated in many cases.
• Sometimes a writer can instil an ideology to a reader and can influence his thinking in a negative way.
• People have to have a high level of literacy to read some specific and advanced books.
• Accessible in anywhere and anytime, during driving or travelling.
• Radio is less costly than the other media devices, like TV. Unlike TV, which users have to pay a monthly payment for cable, Radio does not need this cost.
• It is available in the rural areas as well.
• Have less detrimental issues.
• No access to any visual features which TV has.
• Less being developed compared to TV or other media devices. Every year, new versions of TV, like introducing of smart TVs, have led users to be satisfied more, while there are no any significant changes in the technology of Radio.
• Less accepted by the new generation.
• Becoming familiar with other cultures by watching movies.
• Watching films is a kind of entertainment. People have less stressful lifestyle by watching more films.
• Some films improve viewers’ relationships. Family films are the best ones helping families to have a better communication.
• Cultural invasion can happen. Young’s minds are more affected by watching other countries’ films.
• Addiction to watching film may be costly and time-consuming. We have to pay fees for Netflix or the cinema and have less enough time to concentrate on our work. 
• It can reduce juveniles’ study performance. Instead of studying, they spend their precious time on watching plenty of films each month.
• Violence and sex scenes that are shown on movies can phenomenally increase the rate of crime among viewers.
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Essay on Radio

Students are often asked to write an essay on Radio in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Radio

Introduction to radio.

Radio is a technology that allows the transmission of signals by modulation of electromagnetic waves. These waves, unlike wires, can travel through space.

History of Radio

Radio was invented in the late 19th century. Guglielmo Marconi, an Italian inventor, is often credited as the father of radio.

Importance of Radio

Radio plays a crucial role in communication. It’s used for broadcasting news, music, and other entertainment. It’s also vital during emergencies.

Modern Use of Radio

Today, radios are everywhere – in our cars, homes, and even in our phones. They continue to be a reliable source of information and entertainment.

250 Words Essay on Radio

The evolution of radio.

Radios, since their inception in the late 19th century, have revolutionized the realm of communication. The birth of radio technology is accredited to Guglielmo Marconi, who successfully sent the first radio signal in 1895. This innovation changed the face of mass communication, paving the way for an era of information accessibility.

The Impact of Radio

Radio’s impact on society is profound. It democratized access to information, making it possible for anyone, regardless of social or economic status, to receive news and entertainment. Radio also played a significant role during wartime, serving as a vital tool for propaganda, morale-boosting, and direct communication with the public.

Radio and Cultural Influence

Radio has been a significant cultural influence. It has shaped our music tastes, disseminated new ideas and trends, and facilitated the global spread of cultures. From radio dramas to music countdowns, it has been at the forefront of popular culture.

The Future of Radio

In the digital age, radio continues to evolve. Internet radio and podcasting have emerged as popular formats, offering on-demand content that caters to niche audiences. Despite the rise of visual media, radio’s auditory experience holds a charm that keeps it relevant.

In conclusion, radio has been a powerful communication tool, shaping society and culture. Its continued evolution in the digital age underscores its enduring relevance and potential for future growth.

500 Words Essay on Radio

Introduction.

Radio, a technology that has been a part of our lives for over a century, has played a significant role in the evolution of global communication. Despite the advent of more advanced technologies, the radio has managed to retain its relevance, demonstrating its adaptability and resilience.

The Birth of Radio

The invention of radio can be traced back to the late 19th century, with Guglielmo Marconi often credited with its development. Marconi’s experiments with electromagnetic waves led to the first successful long-distance wireless telegraph and subsequently, the birth of radio communication. The radio was a breakthrough in the field of communication, offering a way to transmit information quickly over vast distances.

The Golden Age of Radio

The 1920s to the 1950s is often referred to as the ‘Golden Age of Radio’. During this period, radio became a household item, providing entertainment, news, and vital information to the masses. It was a unifying medium, bringing together people from different walks of life through shared experiences of listening to the same broadcasts.

Radio’s Impact on Society

Radio has had a profound impact on society. During times of war, it was used to communicate with troops and provide updates to the public. In peacetime, it has been used to educate, entertain, and inform. Radio has also played a significant role in promoting cultural exchange and understanding by broadcasting music, news, and stories from around the world.

Radio in the Digital Age

The radio, despite being one of the oldest forms of mass communication, continues to be relevant in our digital age. Its resilience and adaptability are a testament to its inherent strengths: the ability to reach a wide audience, the intimacy it creates with its listeners, and the simplicity of its use. As we move further into the digital age, it is likely that the radio will continue to evolve and adapt, remaining a vital part of our communication landscape.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

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Three Media for Communicating Information Advantages and Disadvantages Essay – IELTS Writing Task 2

Updated On Dec 28, 2023

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• Band 7 Sample Answer For Writing Task 2 Question – Compare Advantages and Disadvantages of Three Media for Communicating Information
• Band 8 Sample Answer For Writing Task 2 Question – Compare Advantages and Disadvantages of Three Media for Communicating Information
• Band 9 Sample Answer For Writing Task 2 Question – Compare Advantages and Disadvantages of Three Media for Communicating Information
• Connectors Used in the Above Sample Answers of ‘Compare Advantages and Disadvantages of Three Media for Communicating Information’

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The essay “Compare Advantages and Disadvantages of Three Media for Communicating Information” is an Advantages/Disadvantages writing task 2 question that has previously appeared in an IELTS test. The essay writing section of the IELTS Writing Module can be a difficult task for many IELTS aspirants. Thus, you must polish your essay writing skills before attempting the IELTS.

The   IELTS Writing Task 2 for the given advantages/disadvantages essay – “Compare Advantages and Disadvantages of Three Media for Communicating Information” requires you to discuss the pros and cons of it. You will be asked to provide a clear thesis, supporting arguments, and examples in a well-structured essay. Balancing advantages and disadvantages while maintaining coherence and clarity is essential for success in this task.

Here, you get access to 3 IELTS writing task 2 advantages/disadvantages sample answers ranging from band 7-9 along with their vocabulary highlighted. So, why wait? Start reading the blog!

Learn some more ways to Achieve a band score of 8   for Writing Task 2 and check out the IELTS essay for ‘Compare Advantages and Disadvantages of Three Media for Communicating Information’ given below.

Band 7 Sample Answer For Writing Task 2 Question – Compare Advantages and Disadvantages of Three Media for Communicating Information

In today’s world, people are surrounded by various media outlets like radio, television, books, and more. In my opinion, movies, TV shows, and books are the most impactful. Anyways, this essay will compare their advantages and disadvantages.

Firstly, talking about the advantages of TV is a massive source of information, especially about current events. News shows for instance, keep us updated on economic issues, world happenings, weather, etc and spreading the latest updates globally. When it comes to movies, people, both young and old, love watching them on platforms like cinemas, Netflix, and YouTube. If filmmakers create meaningful movies like “Education is Important” or “Disadvantages of Child Marriages,” the audience can clearly understand right from wrong. Lastly, books are another valuable source for learning about diseases, issues, and various knowledge. In short, these media outlets can offer different types of education if used in an organized and appropriate manner.

On the downside, media like movies, TV, and books can also contribute to violence and certain health issues at times. For instance, reading books for extended periods may strain the eyes and cause headaches. Regarding movies and TV shows, they can sometimes portray criminal activities, influencing young people negatively. Some immoral movies may lead to harmful addictions and impact mental well-being. Additionally, these media sources can spread fake news, leading people to be deceived.

In conclusion, media is a powerful source that enlightens our lives with knowledge. However, it should be used in a balanced and beneficial way to avoid various challenges for people of all ages.

Band 7 Vocabulary

Meaning: Various channels or means for expressing and distributing information. Example: Media outlets such as TV, radio, and newspapers play a crucial role in disseminating news.

Meaning: Having a significant effect or influence on something. Example: Movies, TV shows, and books are considered the most impactful forms of media in contemporary society.

Meaning: Carrying significance or conveying a deep message or purpose. Example: Meaningful movies, like those addressing social issues, can leave a lasting impact on the audience.

Meaning: Arranged in a systematic and well-structured manner. Example: To maximize educational benefits, media should be used in an organized and systematic way.

Meaning: The negative or unfavorable aspects of a situation. Example: While media has its merits, it’s essential to consider the downside, such as potential health impacts.

Meaning: Contrary to moral principles; unethical or improper. Example: Some movies with immoral content may raise concerns about their impact on societal values.

Meaning: Misled or tricked into believing something that is not true. Example: Fake news can deceive people, leading to misinformation and misunderstandings.

Meaning: Maintaining a harmonious and proportionate arrangement or distribution. Example: Using media in a balanced way involves considering both its benefits and potential challenges for all age groups.

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Band 8 Sample Answer For Writing Task 2 Question – Compare Advantages and Disadvantages of Three Media for Communicating Information

Undoubtedly, in today’s world, we have many technologies for communication and information, such as books, radio, and films. I believe that despite their numerous benefits, these also have a few disadvantages. Hence, this essay will elaborate about both the sides with examples.

Talking about books, they are the traditional method of sharing information, are still widely used in schools. They are affordable and a convenient way for students to focus on their studies. For instance, even with internet assistance, students often prefer visiting the library and reading books because they provide reliable information and a mix of knowledge. Radio is favoured by both the older and younger generations. It’s a helpful companion when we lack internet access, reviving old memories. On the other hand, the younger generation leans more towards audio-visual devices like television and films due to their engaging features.

However, the production of printed materials isn’t environmentally friendly, as it involves cutting down trees which is very harmful to the environment. Additionally, proper storage is crucial, as exposure to moisture or rain can damage the quality of books. While films offer colourful views and aid learning for those who dislike reading, they sometimes contain explicit content that can negatively impact society, contributing to an increase in crime rates like rape and murder.

In conclusion, despite the widespread availability of technology for information, its volatile nature raises concerns about complete trust. In my opinion, books remain a source of trustworthy information, connecting us to traditional and cultural values missing on the internet.

Band 8 Vocabulary

Meaning: Inexpensive and within financial reach for many people. Example: Public libraries make books affordable for all, fostering a love for reading in the community.

Meaning: Easy to use and fitting well with one’s needs or lifestyle. Example: E-books offer a convenient way to access a vast library without the need for physical space.

Meaning: Capturing one’s interest and involvement, often through compelling content. Example: The engaging plot twists in mystery films keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

• Environmental

Meaning: Pertaining to the impact on the natural world and ecosystems. Example: The environmental consequences of deforestation for paper production are a global concern.

Meaning: Extremely important or necessary for a particular purpose. Example: Proper storage conditions are crucial for preserving ancient manuscripts and artifacts.

Meaning: Clearly expressed or depicted, often referring to content that is direct and specific. Example: Some movies carry explicit content, requiring careful consideration of age-appropriate viewing.

Meaning: Tending to change rapidly and unpredictably. Example: The stock market is known for its volatile nature, with prices fluctuating frequently.

• Trustworthy

Meaning: Worthy of trust or confidence; reliable. Example: Primary sources in historical research are considered trustworthy for understanding past events.

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Band 9 Sample Answer For Writing Task 2 Question – Compare Advantages and Disadvantages of Three Media for Communicating Information

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In this contemporary era of communication, radio, television, and the internet, each presents distinct methods of giving out information. Though I believe all three media are a good source to gain knowledge from, this essay will discuss both the merits and demerits relating to them.

When considering the advantages, radio serves as a dependable companion, consistently delivering stories and news happening around the world. Its accessibility is a welcoming gesture, catering to individuals engaged in various activities like cooking, driving, etc. When it comes to Television, it emerges as a visual narrator, illustrating vivid scenes with sound. Moreover, educational programs transform learning into a visual expedition, illustrating the marvels of our planet. Regarding the internet, it is an expansive repository of information, it operates as a virtual portal, allowing exploration at one’s own pace. Social media, a facet of the internet, establishes global connections, forming a virtual community.

On the other side, each of these mediums possesses inherent limitations as well. Radio, doesn’t have visuals, encounters challenges in elucidating intricate details and signal disruptions in remote areas can impede the seamless flow of communication. With television, despite its captivating visuals, may also induce sensory fatigue with prolonged exposure, and random channel surfing can result in information overload. The internet, despite its wealth of information, also contains pitfalls such as inaccurate data and misinformation, necessitating a misleading approach.

To conclude, I believe that in this diverse media availability, proper utilization of all three media ensures an enriching experience in this world of information sharing.

Band 9 Vocabulary

Meaning: An organized journey or voyage for a particular purpose. Example: Educational programs on television turn learning into a visual expedition.

Meaning: Very detailed or complicated. Example: Radio struggles with intricate details due to its lack of visuals.

Meaning: Smooth and continuous, without any visible interruptions. Example: Signal disruptions in remote areas can impede the seamless flow of radio communication.

Meaning: To bring about or cause. Example: Prolonged exposure to television may induce sensory fatigue.

Meaning: An excessive amount or beyond capacity. Example: Random channel surfing can result in information overload on television.

Meaning: A place or container where things are stored. Example: The internet serves as an expansive repository of knowledge.

Meaning: Hidden or unsuspected problems or dangers. Example: The internet, while rich in information, has its share of pitfalls like misinformation.

Meaning: Making something more meaningful or rewarding. Example: Proper utilization of radio, television, and the internet ensures an enriching experience in information sharing.

Connectors Used in the Above Sample Answers of ‘Compare Advantages and Disadvantages of Three Media for Communicating Information’

Connectors,   also known as connectives or transition words, are words or phrases that link ideas or parts of a sentence or paragraph together. Here are some of the connectors used in the above sample answers:

• On the downside
• On the other hand
• Additionally
• On the other side
• For example
• For instance
• In conclusion
• To conclude

Remember to proofread your essay for grammar, vocabulary, and spelling errors. These tips, combined with practice, will help you write well-structured and coherent IELTS Writing Task 2 Advantages/Disadvantages essays like the ‘Compare Advantages and Disadvantages of Three Media for Communicating Information IELTS Writing Task 2.’

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Advantages And Disadvantages Of Radio Broadcasting

The first melody you hear in the morning is most likely a wake-up call, but right after that is the radio. You listen to it when you’re getting ready for work when you’re traveling to work and many at work. Yet, like any medium, radio has its advantages and disadvantages. What are the advantages and disadvantages of radio broadcasting? We will try to clarify this in this text.

Radio – Our Favorite Entertainment

Targeting listeners, 1. there are no broadcast restrictions, 2. it affordable media, 3. flexibility: target groups, 4. portability, 5. radio works as your friend, 1. lack of continuity, 2. positioning ads in the commercial block, 3. distraction.

Most people have their favorite radio station. Even in 90% of cars, radio stations are fixed, and there are usually 6 of these stations. The radio entertains us, informs us and relaxes us. It is a part of our everyday life. It also works as part of the media market and has its advantages over television, print, and the web. It is a high-reach medium that has lower prices in advertising than television advertising. Humorous ads as well as those with a good music theme are very easy to consume – and the stations rarely change to skip ads.

Source: marketingwit

The interesting thing about radio stations lies in their ability to reach the target group through specialized shows and programs. Sound effects can attract the listener’s attention even when they are not concentrating on listening to the radio station. That can stimulate the listener’s imagination and their perception of the particular thing. Each station has its listener profile – which allows us to more easily target audiences. The possibility of regional targeting through local stations is especially good.

When we talk about radio, the goal of everything is to convey your message to the population that follows you – that is, to your target group. It is a media channel through which you can deliver content live or on-demand locally or globally. What are the advantages and disadvantages of radio broadcasting? We will try to clarify.

Source: reference

Radio Is A Live Media

This is one of the main advantages of the radio that sets it apart from all the others. This means that you receive your music , announcement, information, or message in real-time. There are no delays or delays. Everything happens live. So What are the advantages and disadvantages of radio broadcasting? We will try to make it more clear to you.

Namely, when it comes to this medium – events can last as long as necessary. This is made possible primarily by the fact that radio broadcasting is not limited in any sense, such as television recording, which depends on scheduled recordings, DVD video length, etc.

Every radio station makes a living from commercials and advertising. However, compared to the media such as television – it worked more than accessible to advertisers. The costs of producing a radio commercial cannot be measured with other media. However, affordability does not mean poorer quality. Moreover, radio commercials often compensate for the lack of image with a high degree of creativity. Therefore, we often remember some commercials or songs from commercials better than videos that are more visually appealing.

Source: Hobby Help

The radio program is such that you can adapt it to your target group. Many stations remain in the domain of the broad population whose interests they cover. However, some stations specialize only in a certain non-target group. Some stations target specific music or age groups. Therefore, you can choose between many options such as pop, rock, or country music radio stations, or opt for ChilloutRadio and enjoy the summer atmosphere. It is the same with content, whether it is entertainment, politics, or sports. This way, the stations can achieve the orientation of individual listeners, but also create a demographic effect.

Radio is the only medium that you can always carry with you. Whether you’re listening to it while tidying up the house – or while driving a car . Unlike the radio, TV advertising requires you to sit in front of a TV screen. However, the radio is different. As you listen to it, you can comfortably do other things as well. It will not burden you and demand your attention – and yet you will be focused enough to hear what is being broadcast.

A friend, someone who is fun, someone who is a cheerful, good company. These are just some of the characteristics that people gave to the radio when they were supposed to describe it as a living person. Listeners like to interact with the medium they follow – and radio as such is an ideal medium. That’s why consumers find radio ads more honest and compelling. And that’s why, while the radio is playing – you should let your ad play.

Disadvantages

If your attention was attracted by an advertisement in a newspaper or on TV – you have the opportunity to save it – cut out a picture or take a photo. With the help of a DVR system – today you can rewind the program and watch what interests you. However, it is impossible on the radio. Radio commercials may attract your attention if they are inventive and original – but you will not be interested if they are common. Therefore, you will not even remember them – so the effect of such advertising is weaker. You cannot rewind the program to hear, for example, an important phone number – but on the contrary, you have to wait for that particular ad to be broadcast again.

Source: weraveyou

If you are a client whose advertisement is broadcast immediately after the HIT song – that is good for you. But what about everyone else who airs after that. If the block of commercials is extended and lasts too long – listeners usually hear the first one, after which their attention is directed to other stations. Therefore, stations usually make up for this by broadcasting music blocks for 30 to 45 minutes – to keep the listeners on their frequency.

While people can listen to music in the car while driving, there is another side to the portability story. Namely, we are quite sure that none of you will stop the vehicle on the way to enter the phone number from the advertisement that interested him. On the other hand, since the radio allows you the ability to do something else while listening to it – the question is how much your attention will be focused on the content of what you hear.

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Radio’s early years

• The need for regulation
• The role of advertising
• The development of networks and production centres
• Ratings systems
• Radio acting
• Sound effects
• Radio music
• Origins in vaudeville
• Situation comedy
• Variety shows
• Anthology shows
• Film-based anthology shows
• Police and detective dramas
• Horror and suspense
• Science fiction
• Soap operas
• Juvenile action and adventure series
• American radio goes to war
• The end of American radio’s Golden Age
• Great Britain
• Soviet Union
• Postwar rebuilding
• Growth of the BBC
• Economic and political concerns
• The rise of Top 40 radio
• The FM phenomenon
• Radio in developing countries
• Pirates and public-service radio
• Radio in developing markets
• Pressures on public-service radio
• In the United States
• In Latin America
• The global sound of radio
• Radio’s digital future

Where was radio invented?

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• The Canadian Encyclopedia - Radio and Television Broadcasting
• Social Science LibreTexts - Radio
• Case Western Reserve University - Encyclopedia of Cleveland History - Radio
• UEN Digital Press with Pressbooks - Radio
• University of Minnesota Libraries - Evolution of Radio Broadcasting
• Federal Communications Commission - A Short History of Radio
• West Texas A&M University Pressbooks - Media Communication, Convergence and Literacy, Second Edition - The Evolution of Radio
• Table Of Contents

What is radio?

Radio is sound communication by radio waves , usually through the transmission of music, news, and other types of programs from single broadcast stations to multitudes of individual listeners equipped with radio receivers.

Was radio used in World War I?

Efforts were made to use radio in World War I , but the technology proved unreliable. Wireless sets were available in battlefield trenches , where they were reserved for emergency communication in the event of cut telephone and telegraph wires.

Where are radio waves located on the electromagnetic spectrum?

Radio waves are located at the low- frequency end of the electromagnetic spectrum , beneath gamma rays , X-rays , ultraviolet light , visible light, infrared radiation , radar waves, microwaves , and television waves.

The first practical wireless radio communication system was developed in Italy by Guglielmo Marconi . Marconi built on the mathematics of physicist James Clerk Maxwell and the experiments of both Oliver Lodge and Heinrich Hertz to transmit experimental broadcasts from the lab he built in 1894 at his family’s country villa. He developed his practical wireless communication system in 1895, and he filed a patent for it in England in 1896.

radio , a form of mass media and sound communication by radio wave s, usually through the transmission of music , news, and other types of programs from single broadcast stations to multitudes of individual listeners equipped with radio receivers. From its birth early in the 20th century, broadcast radio astonished and delighted the public by providing news and entertainment with an immediacy never before thought possible. From about 1920 to 1945, radio developed into the first electronic mass medium, monopolizing “the airwaves” and defining, along with newspapers , magazines , and motion pictures , an entire generation of mass culture . About 1945 the appearance of television began to transform radio’s content and role. Broadcast radio remained the most widely available electronic mass medium in the world, though its importance in modern life did not match that of television, and in the early 21st century it faced yet more competitive pressure from digital satellite - and Internet -based audio services.

Based on the human voice, radio is a uniquely personal medium, invoking a listener’s imagination to fill in mental images around the broadcast sounds. More readily and in a more widespread fashion than any other medium, radio can soothe listeners with comforting dialogue or background music, or it can jar them back into reality with polemics and breaking news. Radio also can employ a boundless plethora of sound and music effects to entertain and enthrall listeners. Since the birth of this medium, commercial broadcast companies as well as government organs have made conscious use of its unique attributes to create programs that attract and hold listeners’ attention. The history of radio programming and broadcasting around the world is explored in this article.

The first voice and music signals heard over radio waves were transmitted in December 1906 from Brant Rock, Massachusetts (just south of Boston), when Canadian experimenter Reginald Fessenden produced about an hour of talk and music for technical observers and any radio amateurs who might be listening. Many other one-off experiments took place in the next few years, but none led to continuing scheduled services. On the West Coast of the United States , for example, Charles (“Doc”) Herrold began operating a wireless transmitter in conjunction with his radio school in San Jose, California, about 1908. Herrold was soon providing regularly scheduled voice and music programs to a small local audience of amateur radio operators in what may have been the first such continuing service in the world.

The radio hobby grew during the decade before World War I , and the ability to “listen in” with earphones (as there were no loudspeakers) and occasionally hear voices and music seemed almost magical. Nevertheless, very few people heard these early broadcasts—most people merely heard about them—in part because the only available receivers were those handmade by radio enthusiasts, the majority of them men and boys. Among these early receivers were crystal sets, which used a tiny piece of galena (lead sulfide) called a “cat’s whisker” to detect radio signals. Although popular, inexpensive, and easy to make, crystal sets were a challenge to tune in to a station. Such experiments were scattered, and so there was little demand for manufactured receivers. (Plug-in radio receivers, which, through the use of loudspeakers, allowed for radio to become a “communal experience,” would not become widespread until after 1927.) Early broadcasters in the United States, such as Herrold , would continue until early 1917, when federal government restrictions forced most radio transmitters off the air for the rest of World War I, stalling the growth of the medium.

After the war, renewed interest in radio broadcasts grew out of experimenters’ efforts, though such broadcasts were neither officially authorized nor licensed by government agencies, as would become the practice in most countries by the late 1920s. Early unauthorized broadcasts sometimes angered government officials, as in England, where concern was raised over interference with official government and military signals. Amateurs developed the means and simply began to broadcast, sometimes preannounced but often not. As they became more proficient , they would announce schedules—typically an hour or so for one or two evenings per week.

One of the world’s first scheduled radio broadcast services (known as PCGG) began in Rotterdam, Netherlands , on November 6, 1919. Other early Dutch stations were operated by the Amsterdam Stock Exchange (to send information to new members) and by a news agency that was seeking a new way to serve newspaper subscribers. Another early station appeared in Canada when station XWA (now CFCF) in Montreal began transmitting experimentally in September 1919 and on a regular schedule the next year. (The first commercially sponsored stations in Canada appeared in 1922.) The first British station offered two daily half-hour programs of talk and music from Chelmsford (near London) in 1919–20. Concerns about interference with military wireless transmissions, however, led to a shutdown until 1922, when government-authorized stations appeared, including the first London-based outlet. The first Mexican radio station aired in the capital city in 1921, though many in the country had first heard broadcasts from Cuba or Puerto Rico . By that point, stations had also appeared in Australia (Melbourne, in 1921), New Zealand (from Otago University in Dunedin, also in 1921), and Denmark (from Copenhagen, 1923).

Broadcasting got an important boost in the huge American market when about 30 radio stations took to the air in different cities in 1920–21. Most of these developed out of amateur operations , each dedicated to a different purpose. “Doc” Herrold returned to the air in 1921, but he soon had to sell his station for lack of operating funds. The University of Wisconsin ’s WHA began as a physics department transmitter, but as early as 1917 it was sending wireless telegraph agricultural market reports by Morse Code to Wisconsin farmers. WHA, the first American educational outlet, probably began voice broadcasts in early 1921, though several other universities soon initiated stations with similar aims. KDKA in Pittsburgh, most often cited as the first radio outlet in the United States, had begun as the amateur station 8XK in 1916, but it was forced off the air in World War I. It reappeared on November 2, 1920, as a “commercial” voice-and-music service operated by the Westinghouse electrical manufacturer to help sell the company’s radio receivers. Westinghouse added other stations in different cities over the next two years, and General Electric and the newly formed Radio Corporation of America ( RCA ) soon entered the radio business as well. Detroit’s amateur operation 8MK (which debuted on August 20, 1920) soon became WWJ, the first station to be owned by a newspaper ( The Detroit News ). Initially seen as simply another press-supported community service, a radio station became a means of hedging bets in case the new medium proved competitive with newspapers.

Slowly, other American stations took to the air, often as auxiliaries to the owner’s primary business, such as a retail store, hotel, or record shop. The deluge came in 1922 when more than 550 new stations crowded onto the few available frequencies to build on radio’s appeal across the country. Many quickly disappeared as they could not pay the cost of operations (on-air advertising was rare). Equipment was largely hand-built, and most stations operated with less power than an ordinary reading lamp. Initial studio spaces had walls covered in burlap to deaden sound and, along with a microphone , featured a piano that could be used for filling short bits of air time. A few stations experimented with telephone lines to allow two or more outlets to carry (or “network”) an occasional presidential address or sporting event. Audiences were enthralled as radio became a national craze. Magazines, books, and even movies featured or included references to radio broadcasting.

Most other industrial nations began radio broadcasts by the mid-1920s. France (in Paris) and the Soviet Union (in Moscow) aired broadcasts in 1922. The first continuing Chinese radio station appeared in Shanghai early in 1923, when stations also appeared in Belgium, Czechoslovakia, Germany, and Spain. The pace quickened when Italy explored radio in 1924, followed by Japan, Mexico, Norway, and Poland in 1925. All these countries varied in how they authorized and organized radio services, with governments usually playing a far more central role than was the case in the United States.

Stations everywhere faced the same basic problem: what to program in order to attract and hold an audience—and how to support a continuing service financially. Radio quickly became popular anywhere signals could be heard, but how best to utilize the medium—what to place on the air, or to “ program ”—remained to be seen. Most early broadcasts were characterized by haphazardness, though two attractions quickly stood out: the warmth of the human voice (at first nearly always male) and almost any type of music, classical or popular, instrumental or vocal. Virtually everything on the air was live because recordings were of poor quality. Thus, a speaker or a musician could easily fill time until the next segment appeared. Only after the first few years did the notion of “programs” develop, with specific times and lengths, beginnings and endings.

Radio remains one of the most trusted medium of communication

The global 2022 theme for World Radio Day is Radio and Trust, with a focus on trust in journalism, accessibility and viability of radio stations. Radio continues to be one of the most trusted and used media in the world , according to different international reports.

Recent world events and the COVID-19 pandemic have eroded trust in the media in general, fueled by the circulation of false content rapidly spreading - particularly on social media. However, studies show that many citizens still ascribe greater confidence to radio than to any other media. This confidence level reinforces the importance of providing people with accurate and reliable content. 

Radio is a powerful medium for celebrating humanity in all its diversity and constitutes a platform for democratic discourse. Its unique ability to reach out to the widest audience means radio can shape a society’s experience of diversity, stand as an arena for all voices to speak out, be represented and heard. Radio stations should serve diverse communities, offering a wide variety of programs, viewpoints and content, and reflect the diversity of audiences in their organisations and operations.

People’s trust in radio is due to its low cost and simplicity. Relative to the other media, both its capital cost and its running expenses are small.  The medium is cheap to use and can attract a substantial audience. Radio remains affordable and can be listened to everywhere, even when electricity or connectivity are not reliable. The medium is therefore one of the most popular means of communication, used by an overwhelming majority of people.

Diversity, dissenting views, offering a public sphere are becoming crucial to maintain and raise trust levels in this medium. UNESCO calls all radio stations around the world to commemorate World Radio Day by raising greater awareness among the public and the media regarding the importance of radio. UNESCO also encourages decision makers to establish and provide access to information through radio as well as to enhance networking and international cooperation among broadcasters.

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This article is related to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals .

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What Are the Disadvantages of a Radio?

A radio does not have the same advantages as other means of communication and entertainment such as the television and the Internet. It lacks visual appeal as no pictures emanate from a radio. A radio signal has limited strength.

Electrical power is needed at the source of transmission of the radio signal and at the reception point. A radio signal is often of poor quality when there is interference due to atmospheric conditions. People often perform other chores while listening to a radio and this makes the radio less engaging. Radios need more bandwidth and even then, the amount of data transmitted is limited.

In some areas such as mountains and valleys, the strength of a radio signal is often very weak making the radio almost useless.

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The Unexplored Benefits of Digital Radio

The coronavirus crisis should alert us to the unexplored resources of digital radio

By Ruxandra Obreja

The author is chairman of Digital Radio Mondiale .

While our lives have been recently stripped to the minimum by a virus, our vocabulary has been suddenly enriched with new words, concepts and acronyms like lockdown, social distancing and work from home, for those who can.

When schools closed down hundreds of thousands of children and older students started to use the internet intensely to continue their education. But to do so these students need a computer and access to broadband and secure connections. In addition, we are already experiencing the limitations of WFH. The broadband is not infinite, and neither is spectrum, a rare commodity indeed.

Big players like Netflix and Amazon are already trimming their offerings to save some bits. Providers are also asking us to use this precious commodity with care. Broadband itself is also of different grades, better when glass fiber than copper etc.

And then there is the physical laptop. What if your mother is distance teaching, your father is conference calling, you are distance learning and your siblings are just skyping friends? How many laptops does a household need? Maybe not all these activities are simultaneous but the laptop (and the cell phone, too) are our gateway to a world blighted by an invisible enemy.

And this is where free-to-air radio broadcasting in its digital format can be of real help. Unlike analog radio, digital and certainly using DRM will allow you to use a receiver with a LED color screen, not smaller than what you have on a cell phone.

This screen transforms radio into an aggregating platform that delivers quality audio, no matter which band is used.

In digital DRM, audio is accompanied by data. It offers the possibility of carrying up to two audio channels and one data channel just on one of the existing frequencies. This is different from analog, which delivers just one audio program on the same frequency and no data. Data can be anything: A geometry lesson with drawings, a quiz, a poem, any text or picture or diagram, etc.

And if you use Journaline, an open, internationally standardized data application for advanced text information in digital radio systems, you will get hierarchically structured information, giving users easy and immediate access to topics of interest and in the desired language.

Users can browse all received information — both audio program-related but also program-independent text information — and select what is of interest. Journaline is not DRM specific and works with virtually any broadcast platform (i.e. DAB/DAB+) due to its low transmission bandwidth consumption. It even delivers a “Hot Button” feature that allows broadcasters to trigger backchannel interactivity, such as linking to online websites, initiating phone calls or sending short text messages.

Recently the data carriage feature of DRM was demonstrated during the BES event in India. It provides an easy, cheap, wide-coverage way of delivering public signage. Think of the screens placed in public places. They could be fed from a DRM transmitter with data only (warnings, phone numbers, simple instructions, or stock market information, pictures of politicians, celebrities, heroes etc.). The system is being tested and used in China.

If this is news to you, then my point is made. Digital radio has been introduced over many years and decades patchily. I don’t believe its full potential has been presented in a compelling way, or that it’s been fully explored.

Digital terrestrial broadcasting is limitless in the number of users it can reach with audio but also extra data. The graphic color screen is the big public alert that can save lives or the small blackboard that is available “live” or where previously stored material can be displayed later. If this sounds like a clunky computer service, it probably is. But it is a resilient and cheap service, it does not consume a lot of bandwidth or electricity and it can reach everyone over large areas (when broadcast in DRM shortwave and medium wave) or locally (DRM in the FM band).

Not many people would have imagined three months ago that we can be in the rare and extreme situation many of us are experiencing now. We must soldier on working from home. Information keeps us connected and alive.

Digital radio reaches vast numbers of peoples at the same time without a lot of intervention, delivering so much more than audio. Having it as a backup to internet, in some places, or as a main source of information in others, allowing access when there is no laptop available, is now becoming a necessity. What’s more, DRM digital radio delivers emergency information or disaster warnings over large or local areas, a feature which seems to be rising in importance.

The virus will not be forever among us. But when we get back to  the new normality, we mustn’t forget this lesson about the great possibilities of digital radio. Full digital broadcasts and full-feature digital receivers are a necessity and not a cottage industry any longer.

We need this new and resilient platform called digital radio because in the invisible fight between viruses floating in the air and radio waves reaching us from a lonely transmitter far away, I will always bet on the radio waves.

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Compare the advantages and disadvantages of books, radio and television as media for communicating information. State which you consider to be the most effective.

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Many people around the world use social media everyday to keep in touch with other people and get news events.Do you think the advatages outweigh the disadvantages?

2. the use of social media is replacing face-to-face interaction among many people in society. do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, your employer has recently allowed some employees to work remotely from home. you would also like to work from home. write a letter to the hr manager for permission to work from home for the next six months. in your letter: • mention why you are writing • explain why you would like to work from home • say how this can benefit you and the company no need for address start with dear sir/madam,, more and more tasks we do at home and at work these days are done by robots.is this a positive or negative development, students should pay full cost for their own study, because university education benefits individuals rather than society. to what extent, do you agree or disagree.

Radio Advantages And Disadvantages | Advantages and Disadvantages of Radio, Pros and Cons

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Tinder and Bumble are struggling as singles refuse to pay up

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W hen Tinder , a mobile dating app, launched on college campuses in America in 2012, it quickly became a hit. Although online dating had been around since Match.com, a website for lonely hearts, launched in 1995, it had long struggled to shed an image of desperation. But Tinder, by letting users sift through photos of countless potential dates with a simple swipe, made it easy and fun.

Soon Tinder and its rivals had transformed courtship. A report published last year by the Pew Research Centre found that 30% of American adults had used an online dating service, including more than half of those aged between 18 and 29. One in five couples of that age had met through such a service. Usage surged during the pandemic, as lonely locked-down singles sought out partners. The market capitalisation of Bumble, a rival to Tinder, surged to $13bn on its first day of trading in February 2021. Later that year the value of Match Group, which owns Tinder, Hinge and scores of other dating services, reached nearly $50bn. Today roughly 350m people around the world have a dating app on their phone, up from 250m in 2018, according to Business of Apps, a research firm. In June Tokyo’s government even said it would launch a matchmaking app of its own to pair up singles in the city.

Yet lately online dating has lost its spark. The apps were downloaded 237m times globally last year, down from 287m in 2020. According to Sensor Tower, another research firm, the number of people who use them at least once a month has dwindled from 154m in 2021 to 137m in the second quarter of this year (see chart 1). On August 7th Bumble reported revenue growth of just 3%, year on year, in the quarter from April to June, and lowered its forecast for the full year to 1-2%. Its shares plunged by a third in after-hours trading. On July 30th Match Group reported that its revenue for the same quarter grew by only 4%. Both companies’ market values have cratered since Bumble’s listing (see chart 2). That reflects users’ increasing disillusionment with dating apps, decreasing willingness to pay for them—and growing interest in offline alternatives.

Start with the disillusionment. Apps that once felt fun have, for many, become wellsprings of frustration. The network effects that initially propelled services such as Tinder, in which a widening choice of partners lured in ever more users, have now made them exasperating. Users grumble about spending hours sorting through tens of thousands of profiles. Half of women surveyed by Pew said they felt overwhelmed by the number of messages they received. It doesn’t help that 84% of Tinder users are men. So are 61% of those on Bumble, which is targeted at women. Many users also fret about scams.

Younger adults are growing especially weary of the apps. One survey commissioned last year by Axios, a news site, found that only a fifth of American college students were using them at least once a month. “It’s not fun, it’s so superficial and it’s also just like really exhausting,” laments one youthful influencer on TikTok, a short-video app. “I’m kind of over it,” sums up Wunmi Williams, a 27-year-old who, after years of swiping and matching, has been unable to find a partner through a dating app. In a sign of growing despair, the Marriage Pact, an annual event in which participants are matched with a “backup” spouse should their future romantic endeavours fail, has spread to 88 college campuses across America.

All this helps explain why dating-app developers are struggling to convince users to part with cash—the second reason for their lacklustre performance. In an effort to boost margins, dating apps have been peddling paid upgrades to supplement their lowly ad revenues. Hinge has a separate feed with popular profiles it thinks you might like, but demands that you hand over $3.99 for a “rose” before you can chat with them. Tinder’s paid plans range from $17.99 a month (which gives you unlimited swipes and lets you change your location) to a hefty $499 a month (which lets you see the most popular profiles on the app and message users you haven’t matched with).

Got the ick

Online dating may no longer look desperate, but users seem to worry that paying for it might. The share of people who are willing to spend money on dating apps has been falling. Tinder’s paid users have declined for seven consecutive quarters. Men are more likely to cough up, which may be worsening the feeling common among women of being bombarded by messages on the apps.

Perhaps the biggest threat to the future of dating apps, though, is the growing share of singles looking offline for love. Last year some began wearing an aqua-coloured ring, made by a startup called Pear, to show their openness to being wooed. Thursday, a company that organises in-person events for singles, has expanded its service to roughly 30 cities, from Stockholm to Sydney. Its app works only on Thursday, when the events are held.

The romance is not confined to bars. Running clubs have become a place for athletic types to meet. Cooking classes, too, have become a place to look for partners, says Julia Hartz, the boss of Eventbrite, a ticketing platform. Attendance at its singles events rose 42% between 2022 and 2023. “You are bonding with someone, you’re having an experience, even if they’re not the love of your life,” says Casey Lewis, a blogger on youth culture, of such events.

Dating apps are looking for ways to lure users back. Some are hoping to spice things up with artificial intelligence ( AI ). Whitney Wolfe Herd, Bumble’s founder, recently mused that the future of courtship could involve one person’s AI bot going on “dates” with another’s. One new app, Volar, has begun offering just that.

In time, society might be willing to leave matchmaking to machines—but it is hard to imagine the strategy paying off just yet. A more fruitful approach for dating apps may instead be to focus on narrower markets. Grindr, an app for gay men, continues to grow quickly. So does Feeld, which targets the polyamorous. In the past few years Match Group has launched apps targeted at gay men (Archer), single parents (Stir), ethnic minorities ( BLK , Chispa) and snobs (The League). Revenue from this portfolio of brands grew by 17%, year on year, in the second quarter of 2024.

In addition to offering a smaller pool of partners, such apps also serve as a community for like-minded people. Grindr, for example, acts as a travel guide for tourists looking for gay bars and a hub for information on HIV . The company says its average user sends 50 messages a day, about the same as for WhatsApp, a messaging service. Its success in that regard might explain why Lidiane Jones, the chief executive of Bumble, has said she wants her firm to be known as a “connections company, rather than a dating company”. Pulling off such a rebrand may prove tricky. But love has never been an easy business. ■

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This article appeared in the Business section of the print edition under the headline “Swiped out”

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Tim Walz's military record: What to know about potential VP's National Guard service

Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate on Tuesday, choosing a progressive yet plain-spoken VP candidate from America’s heartland to help her win over rural, white voters.

“I’m pleased to share that I’ve made my decision: Minnesota Governor Tim Walz will join our campaign as my running mate,” Harris said via text to supporters. “Tim is a battle-tested leader who has an incredible track record of getting things done for Minnesota families. I know that he will bring that same principled leadership to our campaign, and to the office of the vice president.”

We look at Walz, a 60-year-old U.S. Army National Guard veteran, and his military career over the years.

More: Tim Walz is Kamala Harris' VP pick: Minnesota governor named running mate: Live updates

How long was Walz in the military?

Walz served in the military for 24 years, enlisting in the Nebraska National Guard at 17 in 1981 and then transferring to the Minnesota National Guard in 1996. He retired in 2005 to begin his successful run for the U.S. House, representing Minnesota as command sergeant major, among the highest ranks for enlisted soldiers. His battalion went on to deploy to Iraq shortly after Walz's retirement.

Walz specialized in heavy artillery and had proficiency ribbons in sharpshooting and hand grenades.

But during the 21 years that Walz spent working with large artillery pieces, he suffered hearing loss and tinnitus in both ears, Minnesota Public Radio reported. He was allowed to continue his service after undergoing surgery, which partially resolved his hearing loss.

Where did Walz serve, and what did he do in the National Guard?

During his service, Walz responded to natural disasters, including floods and tornadoes in Minnesota and Nebraska, and was deployed overseas for months at a time, according to MPR.

In 2003, he was sent to Italy, where he served with the European Security Force to support the war in Afghanistan. He was also stationed in Norway for joint training with other NATO militaries.

Walz told MPR that he reenlisted in the National Guard after the September 11 attacks but never saw active combat in his years in the military.

Stars and Stripes reported in 2020 that Walz credited his Army experience with helping him steer Minnesota through the COVID-19 pandemic as governor.

As governor of Minnesota, Walz is commander in chief of the 13,000-soldier Minnesota National Guard. “I’m certainly proud of my military service, but it’s one piece of me,” he told Minnesota Public Radio in 2018. “It doesn’t define me.”

Reuters and USA TODAY reporter Tom Vanden Brook contributed to this story.

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Opinion: RFK Jr.'s Central Park 'Bear-B-Q' stunt

Scott Simon

Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. makes a campaign announcement at a press conference in Philadelphia on Oct. 9, 2023. Jessica Kourkounis/Getty Images hide caption

In an election season rife with surprises, you might add this week’s revelation by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The independent candidate for president says that 10 years ago he picked up the carcass of a dead bear cub along a country highway and later snuck it into New York’s Central Park, to make it look like the bear had been hit by a bicyclist.

In a video he posted confessing to his old stunt, Kennedy said, “I pulled over and I picked up the bear and put him in the back of my van, because I was going to skin the bear … I was going to put the meat in my refrigerator.”

Kennedy also posed for a photo with the dead bear. He grimaces as if he was being bitten.

Kennedy says he had a dinner in New York and so he drove to the restaurant with the cub’s corpse in his car. He remembered over dinner that he had to catch a flight later that night. Some nights, you might go out to dinner and wonder if you left on a hallway light, and some nights you wonder what you’re going to do with a bear corpse in the back of your car when you have to catch a late-night flight.

Kennedy says he and some friends, who he says had been drinking, while he had not, brought the bear cub’s remains into Central Park and left them there, along with an old bicycle that was also in his car.

Two women discovered the cub the next morning. To quote the New York Post of Oct. 6, 2014, “A baby bear was found dead in Central Park Monday — and police believe it was likely ‘murdered.’” 

A subsequent forensic investigation found that the bear cub was 6 months old, female and weighed 44 pounds. 

Kennedy says in the video that he thought staging the scene would be “amusing.”

Kennedy and his friends hauled the body of a dead bear cub into Central Park, and over the next few days watched news coverage of police and scientific experts scramble to investigate her death.

Some citizens were alarmed to think bears might be moving into Central Park. Many others seemed to be moved by the plight of an innocent bear cub who was run over somewhere, and posthumously dragged into a human stunt. I wonder what the tricksters found so amusing about diverting so many public servants and officials from the real work they have to do trying to investigate real crimes.

• Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
• central park