In mass communication, media are basically the information-transmitting communication tools or resources utilized to transmit and store data or information. The word refers more generally to components of this mass communication media, including print media, broadcasting, publishing, news media, photography, film, television, and radio. In this new millennium, the term “media” has taken on a broader meaning encompassing not only the previously mentioned but also newer sectors such as Web 2.0 ( multimedia ) and the social networks.
Print Media The traditional mass media comprises the print media such as newspapers, magazines, and the daily and weekly publications. It is the oldest form of mass media and predates the proliferation of the more recent technologies such as the Internet. Print media also covers the radio, television, and cinema. Today, people no longer solely rely on the print media for their news, information, and entertainment. Many people turn to television and the Internet to find and receive information.
Television The television is one of the most-used mediums in the broadcast media. It is not only the most watched, but also the most dominant medium in the broadcast media. Both the television and the radio are part of the mass media that mainly covers the U.S.
Computer Networks Mass media such as the television, radio, and film relied largely on the computer networks for their content. These networks emerged to provide a platform for the mass media to showcase and broadcast their content through interactive means. Today, computer networks provide platforms for interactive media such as the Internet, CD-ROMs, video game systems, MP3s, and other devices. In addition, this type of media also enables communication between the various stakeholders in the field of mass media.
Print Media A medium of print media involves publications that are produced for the public and are distributed via specific channels. Initially, print media were primarily disseminated by the traditional print media such as the newspaper, magazines, and book publishers. However, today electronic media are also playing a major role in providing the distribution services. In addition, some types of electronic media such as magazines are offered online to reach a wider audience. Today, newspapers, magazines, and books are often bought or sold directly from the public.
Social Networking The growing popularity of Facebook and MySpace have made internet usage increasingly widespread among the general public. The growth of social networking websites like Facebook and MySpace has given rise to a new media phenomenon-the phenomenon of online news consumption. Online news consumption refers to the act of reading blogs, articles, and other electronically transmitted content either in the form of text or as graphics. The primary motivation of online news consumers is to acquire and retain information through news. Unlike printed media where the reader needs to travel physically to obtain important information, news users can access relevant news from virtually any location-an office, a coffee shop, or even their cell phone.