Brief summary of activity
Through participative discussion, participants will learn of the links between community development and community media.
Aim of the activity
To make participants aware that media could be a tool for community development.
Expected Outcomes
Participants will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the;
- Link between ethos of community radio and community development
- Use of community radio broadcasting as a medium for community development
- Importance of training and development of individuals and communities through community radio
Experience and skills required
Broad knowledge of all kinds of media and particularly community media (history, legal status, networks), facilitation skills, as this activity is mostly an open discussion.
Infrastructure, setting, resources
Studio or portable recorder
Length
40 minutes
Material
Portable recorder/studio.
How the activity should take place
Radio Panel discussion
Facilitate a discussion on whether/how community radio station enables inclusion and access to occur.
Trainer Info: This may include:
- Annual community radio information workshops
- Community radio reception evenings
- Organised visits to community organisations
- Provision of media and broadcasting training
Divide the group up into panellist and observers – the trainer should act moderator in a recorded panel discussion on why a community radio station in comparison to a commercial station would be interested in identifying these organisations. (have the observers feedback re the discussion at the end).
Tutor Info: The discussion might include:
- When groups are identified the community station can invite them to become involved in the station. This may include: broadcasting, joint outreach work or a role in governance
- Each community radio is interested in promoting the diversity of communities.
- Commercial radio is privately owned and is not focused on sharing its ownership or involving community groups in its governance. Its focus is on attracting a larger share of audiences and often their programmes are similar across the country.
Recommended max. number of participants and trainees to trainers ratio
10 (for visually impaired and learning difficulties, 4 per trainer)
Risk and possible adaptation
Discussion can be recorded, edited and podcast and offered as a resource to vision impaired participants. Leaflets and hand-outs can be e-mailed to the group.
Tips for Trainers
Keep the discussion interactive. Ask questions to trainees as to keep then engaged.
Requirements for participants
No specific requirements.
Analysis and evaluation
Can participant name three community radio actions to enable community engagement?
Can they name three differences between and community radio and mainstream (commercial and public) radio?
Scheduling
This is not a compulsory workshop, but if included it should go as part of an introduction and before research and interviewing