Newsbeat Flashcards
Summary
Newsbeat has been broadcasted since 1973, it promises that it’s listeners will be educated on current events in the UK and globally.
The energetic presenters ensure complex issues remain accessible to the target audience through their informal mode of address and audience participation.
The BBC
The BBC is the largest public service broadcaster in the UK. According to the regulator, Ofcom, PSBs are tasked with “delivering impartial and trusted news, UK-originated programmes and distinctive content”.
There is also a need to be representative of the UK’s diverse population. For example, Newsbeat is presented in Birmingham.
Distribution
The main fifteen-minute Newsbeat programmes are transmitted live over digital audio broadcast (DAB) frequencies at 12:45 and 17:45 during most weekdays. You can listen to the latest stories, entertainment gossip and sport headlines by tuning into Radio 1, 1Xtra and the Asian Network.
You can listen to newsbeat online, but you’ll need a BBC account. Or you can download and share media through the BBC Sounds app.
The producers offer a range of ways to listen to the show because they want to connect with a larger audience, improve their ratings and secure the viability of the format.
Demographics
The BBC Trust claims Radio 1 targets people who are aged 15-29. However, RAJAR suggests the average listener is actually 30.
Codes and Conventions
A short burst of music with a fading bassline signals the start of the Programme. In the intro, the newsreader introduces the episode to the audience. There may ne a voice ident where the presenter mentions the name of the broadcast.
The report might begin with a clip of actuality (material recorded on location), a clever soundbite from a contributor, expert opinion, or relevant music. If the news story is developing, the broadcast will cut to the reporter on the scene for more immediate information and live updates. This called the live cross.
Cross-media production
Radio 1 reached just under 9 million listeners every week in the first quarter of 2020. Despite facing tough competition from other platforms, such as television, streaming services and podcasts, radio shows continue to attract a mass audience.
Newsbeat had to compete against mobile-first audiences that learn about important events through what is trending on their social networks and notifications of breaking news flashing on their screens.
The Newsbeat producers responded to this challenge by serving content on their website, YouTube channel, Twitter account and Instagram profile. Taking a multi-platform approach ensures the product remains relevant to its audience.
Reception theory
Preferred reading - The Newsbeat producers hope their short-form news stories will engage their audience and keep them up to date about the latest events around the world.
Negotiated reading - Some listeners might appreciate the snackable content but will be then turn to other sources for the stories behind the headlines.
Oppositional - Other listeners will simply reject the encoded message and construct their own meanings. Perhaps the news stories are irrelevant to their own situations. They might even tune into another station if they just want to hear music.
