Types of Media
In mass communication, media are usually the media tools or resources utilized to deliver and store data or information. The word refers to various elements of the mass communications media industry, including the mass media news media, print media, television, radio, and cinema, as well as other types of distribution. These may include broadcast television, wire services (radio and television transmission), postal services (postage tubes) and other modes of distribution. Media are usually produced by commercial media companies such as magazines, newspapers, book publishers, video and film producers, music producers, advertising agencies, and other organizations. They may also be distributed by personal computer manufacturers and companies offering computer media products.
With the large number of media outlets, it is easy to become confused about what types of content and what medium one should utilize. Broadly, it’s an accepted fact that most people go to the television in order to receive entertainment. And so, it is common for many individuals to come home from a hard day of work, turn on the television and come upon various television programs. But where does that leave the person who likes to watch the television but cannot always get time to sit down in front of it to enjoy it?
For these individuals, local television stations and channels could be the ideal medium to receive their favorite programs. This includes news and information related to local areas. One can also enjoy regular entertainment by tuning into the various sports channels available. In this way, one is not forced to watch the evening news, R&R, or other popularly viewed programs. And with the wide range of high definition television broadcasted through satellite television systems and local news stations today, one can easily broaden his or her media intake.
With the advent of broadband Internet access, local news stations and television channels have increased their Internet capabilities to accommodate the huge number of viewers hooked to high-speed Internet connections nowadays. Through this technological evolution, broadcast media can now be viewed online. This not only broadens the target market for the broadcasting media companies but also provides them more potential viewers to cater to. This type of broadcast also enables local residents and other individuals living far away from television sets to enjoy the programs broadcasted by local networks and channels online. In effect, this type of broadcast provides the widest reach among its target audience.
On a broader note, there are other types of media that can be considered as part of the “MEDIA” umbrella. Movies, music, art, fashion, commercial videos, animation, short films, live broadcasts, and interactive games are some of these types of media. The term “MEDIA” may sometimes be applied to all three of these but in general, the term is used to describe any media that allows distribution of information to an audience. In today’s society, there has been an increase in the number of individuals who rely heavily on the Internet to receive and create information or entertainment.
In addition, other forms of media such as cable television, radio, and print media are constantly evolving to become better ways to deliver content to an audience. Both radio and television have changed the way they do things for the better. As a result, more people are relying on these media than ever before. In fact, today it is estimated that nearly 45% of the population uses some form of radio or television each day to receive or view media. However, despite its rapid growth and wide appeal, many people still do not fully understand the differences among the various forms of media available.