Mass Media Evolution and Communication Systems

The Mass Media

The mass media are systems through which information is transmitted to a wide audience.

The most traditional forms include print, radio, and television.

The three main functions of the media are to inform, entertain, and provide opinion.

1) The Press

It is the oldest form of media. In Spain, it emerged in the 18th century.

The Language of the Press

• The written word: Journalistic texts must be clear, easily understandable, and attractive to interest the recipient.
• The image: Written information is supplemented by images such as photographs, graphics, and maps.
• Design elements: Great importance is attached to color, size, and typeface.

2) The Radio

Radio produces and transmits acoustic messages via electromagnetic waves. It was born at the end of the 19th century.

The Language of Radio

• Verbal language: This is the basic code. Through words and intonation, it conveys information, feelings, and emotions.
• Music: It can be a central element, as in music programs, or a resource assistant that leads programs, separates sections, and creates an atmosphere.
• Sound effects: These can be recorded special effects that mimic applause or laughter, or conventional sounds like timing.
• Silence: The absence of sound is one of the most expressive tools on the radio.

3) Television

Television is the most influential medium in today's society. It began in 1929, but national television networks were truly established around 1950.

The Language of Television

• Television film takes the main aspects of the moving image.
• It uses music and sound effects.
• Spoken language dominates, but written texts are also present.

4) Internet

The Internet is a means of disseminating global information that enables people to communicate through their computers.

The Language of the Internet: Hypertext

It can be considered a vast hypertext, a text type in which textual units provide access to new information. Hypertext allows for reader interaction with the document and enables communication among users.

It uses a multimedia language, which is a code that integrates any type of computer equipment signs.