Radio is an electronic medium of audio communication
Functions and roles
Information
.Through news, talk shows, adverts and other programmes, radio creates awareness in society of what is happening within and outside agiven the society. For example focus on Africa programme on BBC world service radio.
Education.
Through the documentaries, drama and quiz shows aired onradio. Society members are able to draw lessons. Look at instance of playson Hiv/Aids, agriculture aired. Radio teaches society development andhealth aspects relevant to day to day needs. Documentaries on agriculture,health have also impacted on society’s world over.
Entertainment
. Society members are entertained through music and plays.Some radio stations have humorous morning and evening programmes.Radio kills boredom and occupies people through leisure. The differentmusic genres also appeal to all age groups in society. Radio as a secondarymedium, someone can listen to radio while doing something else likewashing, reading
Watch dog and surveillance
. Radio reporters follow up society issuesrelating to religion, politics and education .They report back to societythrough news bulletins and other programmers. Radio keeps an eye oncrimes and security in society.
Agenda setting
. Radio presents to society issues yet to become publicdebates. Radio provides variety of options on which to base enlighteneddecision. The radio determines what audience will discuss airing it. By talkingabout a corrupt government official , society members are brought on board‘ call to action’.Radio is behavioral change agent
. Some radio stations represent andstand for society values, goals and culture. For example a church radiostation will promote abstinence, forgiveness and good morals in society. Alsothe content aired on radio has impact on behavour in society.
Mobilization of society towards common goals
. Radio can be usedmobilization campaigns like immunization, election, and