PowerPoint 6:
The Role of Media in Elections
Opening Discussion
• Where do you get your news from: newspapers, TV,
radio, internet, social media?
• Where do your parents/guardians get their news
from? What about your grandparents or other older
relatives?
• Do you have the same habits as your
parents/guardians?
• Do you think it is important to follow the news?
What are the different types of media?
•
Media refers to the communication of information and
messages to the masses.
•
Media can be divided into three main types:
1. Paid Media: Publicity gained through paid advertising.
2. Earned Media: Publicity gained through efforts other
than advertising, such as news coverage.
3. Owned Media: Internally managed promotional
platforms, such as a website, blog, Twitter feed,
YouTube channel and Facebook page.
•
Media can also be classified as Old media or New media.
Old Media
•
Old media (or traditional media) includes
broadcast and print sources such as TV,
newspaper, radio, magazines and flyers.
-
Typically one-way communication
Delivered at a specific time
Limited jurisdictional reach
Strives to maintain journalistic integrity and
standards
New Media
•
New media is easily accessible, such as online
sources and social media platforms.
-
Interactive
User-driven
Functions in real-time
Borderless
Facts vs. Opinions
•
•
In most cases, the news media provides factual
and informational coverage to inform the public
without letting opinions (biases) interfere.
The news media also produces opinion pieces or
editorials, where news organizations and their
editorial team, columnists or pundits will openly
share their opinions and analysis.
The Importance of News Media
•
•
The news media play an essential role in
contributing to a well-functioning
democracy.
It is their job to inform citizens and ensure
accountability and transparency from our
elected officials and governments.
The Roles of News Media in an Election
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Report on the developments of an election
Provide a platform for parties/candidates to get their
message out
Provide a platform for citizens to communicate their concerns
and opinions
Promote debate between parties and candidates
Advertise the election process to voters
Report on the election results
National Newspapers
• The Globe and Mail —
www.theglobeandmail.com
• CBC News — www.cbc.ca/news
• CTV News — www.ctvnews.ca
• Global News — www.globalnews.ca
• The National Post —
www.nationalpost.com
Final Thoughts
• Why is it important to read multiple sources of
news?
• Why is it important to detect opinion from fact?
• How do the media influence the health and strength
of our democracy?