NDM: Amazon set to launch its first three original TV shows for children

http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/may/16/amazon-original-tv-shows-children-netflix

This article focuses on the issue of Amazon preparing to launch its first three original TV shows which would be targeting children. Two of the shows are called Tumble Leaf and Creative Galaxy, which would be debut on the service on 23 May and 27 June, primary targeting preschool-children. Significantly, the shows will be available to stream on range of devices, including Amazon's Kindle Fire tablet and Fire TV set-box . This is effective as it allows children to watch the shows on devices whenever they wish to, instead of the scheduled timings.

Moreover, Tara Sorensen (Amazon Studio head of kids programming) stated: "We’re working with some of the most renowned creators in the business to introduce programming that promotes life-long learning through play". This establishes that the three shows would be suitable for children, as they would be learning new things. To add, all three of the shows were piloted on Amazon Prime which allowed users to rate and review the episodes. As a result, the feedback was used to inform Amazon's decision to commission the full runs of each show. 

Furthermore, the company also have ideas on creating apps and other interactive, educational content for children. This could be beneficial for families as it would give them something to purchase for their children, and therefore generating money for the company. Amazon is the only company thinking about delivering original TV shows to children through digital channels. Significantly, last year Netflix signed a deal for Dream Works Animation to provide more than 300 hours of original shows for children, based on characters from its films. 

Overall, it can be argued that Amazon's new approach would be successful in maintain their audiences or increasing the amount of viewers, as children are likely to watch new shows. In relation to new/digital media, it could be suggested that companies are taking advantage of new devices such as tablets. This is because, they can now stream their products online which contrasts to traditional forms of media. 

NDM: Mail Online's 10th birthday: from the sidelines to the sidebar

http://www.theguardian.com/media/2014/may/15/mail-online-10th-birthday-sidebar

This article focuses on the issue of Mail Online's 10th birthday, which is the UK's most popular news website. The Mail Online is the online version of the Daily Mail, which takes a right-wing, conservative perspective on issues such as gender, sexuality, ethnicity, etc. Significantly, Mail Online attracts more than 179.8 million monthly browsers which reinforces the popularity of the website. 

Moreover, it was stated that the Daily Mail will attract the younger, more affluent audience usually associated with the internet." This is because, the website includes a variety of features from sports, health to TV & Showbiz which is likely to appeal to the young demographic, as they may be interested in wanting to know about the latest gossip. To add, the front page of the website is different from other websites such as The Guardian, The Times which makes it stand out. Also, the Daily Mail contains a lot of celebrity gossip compared to any UK news website which makes it even more successful among readers.

Overall, it can be argued that the Daily Mail UK's most successful news website and as the website targets middle class individuals, they are likely to use the website as their main source of current affairs. The fact that the Daily Mail has a 'femail' column makes the website even more popular, as caters for women as well. 

NDM: Poll: nearly 50% of year 10 students feel addicted to the internet

This article focuses on the issue of teenagers being addicted to the internet. According to the survey, almost half of all 14 and 15 year olds feel that they are addicted to the internet, with more than three quarters of pupils taking their laptops, phones or tablets to bed at night. Significantly, those who take their devices to bed communication is based on social media or watching videos, which was found in the study of 2,200 students in nine schools across England and Scotland.

Furthermore, the survey was carried out by Tablets of Schools which is a charity led by technology industry groups, such as Carphone Warehouse and Dixon that campaigned for devices similar to iPad s in education. To add, the study revealed that third of students who used their devices in bed was because of homework and therefore the rest used the internet because they were addicted to it. Notably, the suvery also identified gender differences as 46% of girls sometimes felt addicted compared to 36% boys, however more boys admitted to feeling a compulsion towards computer games. A student told researchers they were postitive about the internet and another revealed, "It's the first thing I look at in the morning and the last thing at night. It seems I'm constantly on it". 

Overall, it can be argued that the development of technology has impacted people, especially the young generation as some have become addicted to the internet. New/digital media has made it easier for the youth to connect with others globally, which contrasts to traditional forms of media. Although this issue on internet addiction is being debated, there is evidence that British children spend  more time online than many of their European peers. Thus it could be suggested that society has moved into the stage of an 'Digital Age', as the internet is taking over some individuals lives. 

NDM: One Direction coverage boosts Sun on Sunday sales by 2%

http://www.theguardian.com/media/2014/may/09/one-direction-coverage-boosts-sun-on-sunday-sales

This article focuses on the issue of One Direction advert increase the sales for the newspaper Sun on Sunday. One direction's latest tour was beneficial for the company last month, as it increased the newspaper sales by 2% and therefore in total the company topped 1.7 million. Significantly, The News Group title sol on average of 1,721,068 copies according to the Audit Bureau of Circulation figures.

Furthermore, the sales also increased due to the stories about boxer Amir Khan and actor  Kym Mash. As The Sun primary target are working class individuals from the social economic class C1/C2/D, it could be suggested that they would be appealed in celebrity gossip. To add on, the Mail on Sunday increased by 0.7% last month to 1,566,728. However, The Observer had the biggest decrease in sales, down 3.6% to 206, 869 which could suggest that the newspaper is less popular among readers.

Overall, it is evident that the Sun on Sunday has become popular with readers compared to any other nation newspapers. As One Direction is a extremely successful boy band across the nation, advertising their tour would be beneficial for the company as most people would buy the company of the newspaper. As a result, it could be suggested that print media is not entirely in decline, as people are willing to purchase a copy.

NDM: Tired of pink and keen on football: here come the pre-teen feminists

http://www.theguardian.com/society/2014/may/04/here-come-the-pre-teen-feminists

This article focuses on the issue of the UK feminist group promoting their Schools Against Sexism campaign. The editor of 'Girl Talk' Bea Appleby, stated that the 'girls are amazing' campaign was an overwhelming approach. She revealed:We're promoting the feminist values – equality, sisterhood and empowerment and making the magazine a safe place [that] girls can learn to be proud of who they are and meet great role models. I didn't think it was right that all our readers would see were pop stars and models". Significantly, this would have a positive impact on teenagers as by creating a feminist magazine, this would help girls have a better insight on feminism.

Furthermore, Sophie Bennett of UK Feminista started lobbying schools to tackle sexism and asking headteachers to sign its Schools Against Sexism pledge. Signigcantly, Sophie revealed:"There's been a huge upsurge in the number of feminist groups in schools, colleges and universities. A new generation of girls are standing up against sexism and demanding change".  Moreover, there have been UK Feminist workshops on gender equality taking place in schools and Pinkstinks in 2008 campaigned against sexiust labelling.

To conclude, it can be argued that Feminism has postively impacted teenagers by promoting gender equality. The fact that some schools are creating their own Feminst magazine would be beneficial for teenagers to be introduced to Feminist beliefs.

NDM:Tablet computer web browsing by older people surges

http://www.theguardian.com/media/2014/apr/29/tablet-computer-web-browsing-older-generation-surges

This article focuses on the issue of the increase of the older generation engaging with the internet. Significantly, people over the age of 65 are accessing the internet through using tablet computers. According to 'Adults' Media Use and Attidudes' individuals between the age demographic of 65-74 are accessing the internet through their tablets, which has rose from 5% to 17% in 2012 and 2013.

Although there is a increase of the older generation using the interent, Ofcom identified that they are less likely to interact with online activities, download TV programmes, or visit social networking sites. To add, Ofcom also found that over 65s spent less time surfuring the web compared to other generations, but majority would use the internet for emails. Moreover, according to Ofcom computers, laptops and notebooks are the most popular to access the internet as 78% are interacting through these devices. Notably, it is evident that TV is in decline because of the development of new media, however  42% of adults revealed that they would miss it if was taken away. For example, 16-24 year olds are more than three times more likely to miss their smartphones over TV, which contrasts to 65 year olds saying that they would miss watching TV.

Overall, to a great extent, it can be argued that the emergence of new media has impacted the young and older generation as more people are interacting with new devices. It is more likely for young adults to access the internet through their smartphones, but as older people are now engaging with tablets shows that new/digital media has impacted on their lifestyles. Although the older generating are interacting with new media, they are still using traditional forms of media which could show that they have not adapted to the digital age.

Case study presentation: key notes

1. Nadeem

• Twitter has become a powerful company at the top of the social network monopoly.
• 500 million users worldwide (2012 statistics)
• Twitter could be considered as a positive feature. (Citizen journalism)
• The hashtag icon represents a particular topic that can lead consumers to a deeper interactivity on that particular topic of interest.
• Social media is a tool which allows users to interact feely online.

2. Harpal

• Spotify is a free commercial music service.
• Spotify was launched in 2008.
• Consumers have access to 20 million songs.
• Privacy issues -  illegal downloads.
• Empowers audiences in allowing them to post their music videos on YouTube. (E.g Justin Bieber)

3. Anita

• Focusing on the film industry.
• Netflix supplies a wife range of films from new to old for different age demographic
• Netflix available on tablet.
• Primary audience for Netflix - 18-36 year olds.
• Concerns: Schools have been illegally showing videos for educational purposes.
• Universities are taking advantage of Netflix rental and streaming videos.

4. Gagandeep

• Focusing on the film industry.
• Sales have dropped due to Spotify
• "CD revenue dropped 11.7%"
• "Digital revenue grew by 4.3%!
• 6 million Spotify subscribers
• Pluralists perspective: ordinary people are creating and distributing their own music.

5. Jinan

• Focusing on smartphones.
• Iphone 5 - released on the 12th September
• Samsung Galaxy runs by Android System
• More convergence
• UGC - less censorship
• Social implication - moral panic

6. Zulq

• Focusing on Sky.
• BSkyB owned by Rupert  Murdock
• Over 1000 channels, 50 channels being free view
• Sky+ was launched in 2002
• Sky Go was launched in 2006
• Audiences: film lovers, active subscribers, documentaries fans.
• In 2009 BSkyB received 9million views
• Time Shifting - people no longer have to watch their programmes on scheduled timing.

7. Samuel 

• Focusing on the music industry.
• "Technology has changed everything"
• Album sale have dropped
• Itunes and Spotify are making the most money in the music industry
• CD revenue has dropped by 11.7%
• Examples: Justin Bieber, Lilly Allen, Connor Maynard
• There is a disruption of the record companies.

8. Stefan

• Focusing on Instagram
• Online sharing communication
• Launched in October 2010 - gained popularity immediently
• April 10 2012 - Facebook brought Instagram.

9. Harvey

• Focusing on the film industry
• The speed has changed between traditional and digital films
• Digital camera's are easier to edit
• Audiences have responded to these changes, as some are creating their own films
• Marxist perspective: film makers can spread dominant ideologies to the audiences and there are still six dominant companies in the film industry. 

NDM: New York Times launches data journalism site The Upshot

http://www.theguardian.com/media/2014/apr/22/new-york-times-launches-data-journalism-site-the-upshot

This article focuses on the issue of  The New York Times launching a new site called The Upshot. The website will be a combination of data-driven and explanatory reporting which readers may find useful. 
Significantly, the editor of The Upshot David Leonhardt, wrote on his Facebook page that the aim of the website is to help people's understanding with big and complex stories. He argues that this would be done "by writing in a direct, plain-spoken way, the same voice we might use when writing an email to a friend. We’ll be conversational without being dumbed down".

It could be suggested that this would have a positive impact on people, especially for those who have difficulty understanding complex issues. He further argues that: "We will build on all of the excellent journalism the New York Times is already producing, by helping readers make connections among different stories and understand how those stories fit together." To add, the site will be using graphics and inter actives to help non-expects understand the news which highlights a positive factor. 

To conclude, it can be argued that the new website The Upshot would be beneficial among people. This is because some people may find it useful if they have difficulties understanding a complex new issue, as the website will help them. In relation to new/digital media, this shows a decline in print as a vast majority of people are receiving their news online, rather than purchasing a copy. The fact that individuals can download news app on their smartphones reinforces the idea that there is a decline in traditional forms of media and therefore the development of technology has allowed people to receive information instantly.

NDM: Facebook and Storyful launch FB Newswire

http://www.theguardian.com/media/2014/apr/24/facebook-storyful-fb-newswire

This article focuses on the issue of Facebook working with News Corp-owed Storyful to launch a FB Newswire. The aim of this project is to make it easier for journalists and newsrooms to "find, share and embed newsworthy content from Facebook" in their work. Significantly, the companies hope that FB Newswire will be beneficial resource for journalists to form newsworthy content shared publicly on Facebook, by individuals and organisations globally. To add, FB Newswire is powered by Storyful which significantly will be formed as a social news agency. This is because individuals can distribute their own videos and generate content by posting up pictures or updating their status.

Furthermore, Facebook has more than 1 billion users globally which highlights the company's success in enabling people to connect globally. Storyful was founded in 2010 and brought up Rupert Murdock's News Corp for £15m. The managing editor for Storyful, Aine Kerr states: ""Storyful's discovery technology and expert journalists will bring a new layer of verification, expert curation and community engagement to content on [Facebook]". This could suggest that FB Wire will be useful for journalists to share newsworthy content from Facebook easily. 

To conclude, it can be argued that the launch of FB Newswire would a useful tool for journalists as they will have the opportunity to share and embed newsworthy content from Facebook. As a result, this contrasts to traditional forms of media as journalist would have to reply on print media for their content. This establishes that new/digital media plays a vital role in changing consumers lifestyle, as most people receive their news content through social media. 

Case Study Presentation.

Case Study: Question 7 & 8

7. What concerns/ considerations are there (if any) for the media institutions involved in your case study as a result of the impact of new and digital media? (e.g. deskilling or multi-skilling of the workforce/ decline in workforce etc)

Although there are positive factors for using Facebook such as more interaction, generating content, receiving latest information, there are also concerns for this media institution. For example, there are privacy concerns associated with Facebook which has caused some users to deactivated their account. According to The Guardian, it was rumoured that "Facebook was scanning private user messages to equate conversation with the page "likes", and another that claimed private messages were being posted to public-facing users timelines". This establishes that there are concerns over Facebook as even though the development of new media has made it easy for people to interact with others, there are privacy issues raises. This is further reinforced through a doctoral student at Oxford, Caroline Andrey who states: "There are lots of people who are really angry about having their privacy abused, not least me". However, Facebook had 1,230 million monthly users which could highlight that the positive effect for this social networking site in the future, as there could be a increase of users over the years.

Similarly, Turkey's prime minister Tayyip Edrogan is in favour of blocking Facebook and Twitter because he believes that it is damaging his reputation. According to the article, Twitter users in Turkey have posted voice recordings and documents which show evidence of the corruption among Erdogan group. The prime minster's action blocking Twitter is for "protection measures". Significantly, Turkish telecoms watchdog stated that the ban was caused by citizens complaining about the social media platform violating privacy. Watchdog claimed that they asked Twitter to remove some content but they failed to do so, and therefore Twitter was blocked by courts in order to prevent victimisation of citizens in the future. Furthermore, Erdogan made threats about blocking social media sites after the audio recordings on his alleged conversations suggested corruption was leaked online. He also favoured on banning social sites such as Facebook and Youtube in society, in order to protect the country. For example, the steps to prevent spying on the government would be to shutting sites down as, "these people or institutions are [using social media] for all kinds of immorality, all kinds of espionage and spying.". Conversely, Turkish Twitter users  quickly worked around this issue by tweeting the hashtag, '#TwitterisblockedTurkey', which rapidly began to trend globally. As a result, many people began to compare Turkey to Iran and North Korea, where social media is strictly controlled and there was also calls for a protest on the streets. As a result, this establishes a privacy concern over Facebook in some countries, which has made some people favour in banning social media. Thus it could be suggested that the development of new/digital media has caused concerns for some people, regarding illegal issues.

Articles:

• http://www.theguardian.com/news/datablog/2014/feb/04/facebook-in-numbers-statistics
• http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2012/oct/15/facebook-users-privacy-concerns-security
• http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/mar/21/turkey-blocks-twitter-prime-minister
• http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/09/19/users-quitting-facebook-cite-privacy-concerns.html
• http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-16275176

Quotes: 

 Tayyip Erdogan: "Social Media is a menace". 

Tayyip Erdogan: "These people or institutions are [using social media] for all kinds of immorality, all kinds of espionage and spying".

8. What are the political and social implications of the new technologies and the methods of their consumption?  E.g. moral panics etc?

In relation to Facebook and Democracy, there have been both social and political implication which has been caused by the development of new technology. A prime example of this would be the Arab Spring which took place in countries such as, Tunisia, Egypt, Libya and Yemen. The Arab Spring refers to the "revolutionary wave of demonstration and protests, riots, and civil wars", which was caused by citizens rebelling against their regime's rules. Significantly, a number of issues led to the protest in these countries such as, dictatorship, human rights, political corruption, unemployment ect. The first protest occurred in Tunisia and the demonstrations were a result of high unemployment, corruption, lack of freedom of speech and political speech. Arguably, the protests would not have occurred without the development of Facebook as it was a source for Tunisians to generate awareness of the corruption occurring in their country under the power of Ben Ali. This highlights a social and political implication of new technology as through Facebook citizens had the power to challenge the challenge the hierarchy by forming activist groups and posting up messages and clips.This generated an unstoppable awareness which led more people to challenge the power of the regime, and this led to copycat demonstrations in other countries associated with the Arab Spring. As a result, this highlights the concept of user-generated content which gathered millions of Tunisian's to protest against the regime in order to fulfil their goal by having a democratic society and being treated equally. It could be suggested that the development of new media has changed the methods of consumption for users as they can now generate their own content and receive information instantly, which would not of been possible through traditional forms of media. 

Moreover, China has a strong censorship policy on Facebook as it has been blocked since 2009 because the Xinjian independence activist were using Facebook as part of their communication network. The government realised the power of Facebook to connect globally and therefore he decided to block the site across the nation. Notably, he also realised that they could not specifically censor each post and therefore they blocked the site and Twitter. As a result, citizens were not pleased about this decision because Facebook was a tool for them to socially interact with others, which highlights a political implication. However, last year China had lift the ban on Facebook but only for citizens living in a 17 square mile are of Shangai. 

Quotes:
Roger Cohen: "Tunisia was a Facebook revolution. But I prefer a phrase I heard in Tunisa: “The Dignity Revolution".

Articles:

• http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/03/10/debate-flares-over-impact-of-social-media-on-arab-spring-and-other-revolutions/
• http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/25/opinion/25iht-edcohen25.html?_r=0http://
• www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2431861/China-lifts-ban-Facebook--people-living-working-small-area-Shanghai.html
• http://news.sky.com/story/1206329/the-great-firewall-blocking-facebook-in-china

Case Study: 9, 10, 11, & 12

9. 9. Consider the effects so far, and possible effects in the future, on media institutions involved in your case study (media production).

As Facebook has become increasingly among people and has empowered audiences to generate content, it could be argued that this social networking site will have have a effect on the future, whether it is negative or positive. The positive effects of Facebook in the future is that more people would be using it to receive their latest information, communicate with others, instead of using traditional forms of media. The video below is from The Telegraph which shares their thoughts on the future of Facebook and how they should improve their strategy to appeal to the users. According to the video, the first aspect which Facebook should change is to make sure that not every picture is kept or status and therefore they preserve what users want and deletes what they don't. Secondly, Facebook should work out where they fit with shopping by taking money out of advertising and therefore becoming a social-Amazon, which could make them more successful. Thirdly, Facebook should get more people online even though in developed marketing it is growing by 1%, in developing worlds there is a huge potential for Facebook to get  new people. The social networking site had 1.2 billion people over the first year and over the next year Facebook may have 5 billion or more people online. As a result, this video is significant in showing the positive effects of Facebook in the future if they change their strategy in order to gain more users. 

Furthermore, according to The Telegraph Facebook looked at developing a smartphone but failed to go ahead with this strategy. It could be suggested that in the future Facebook could possible launch another app to generate revenue and increase the amount of users. Significantly, Mark Zukerberg purchased Whatsapp which makes the company more valuable. The purpose of purchasing this app was to make the world more connected and therefore this would be achieved by building service that will help people share any type of content with any group they want. Notably, What app is fast and a reliable mobile messaging service that is used by over 450m people, and will continue to operate independently within Facebook. It was stated in The Guardian,"Facebook Messenger is widely used for chatting with your Facebook friends, and WhatsApp for communicating with all of your contacts and small groups of people. Since WhatsApp and Messenger serve such different and important uses, we will continue investing in both and making them each great products for everyone". It could be suggested that Facebook will be increasingly popular in the future as now they have taken over Whatsapp,

Articles:

• http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/mediatechnologyandtelecoms/digital-media/10650340/Facebook-buys-WhatsApp-Mark-Zuckerberg-explains-why.html
• http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/facebook/10612019/Whats-the-future-for-Facebook-as-it-turns-10.html
• http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/feb/24/mark-zuckerberg-facebooks-future-is-to-reach-billions-of-mobile-users

10. What issues may there be regarding media effects and /or regulation/ censorship as a result of changes due to new and digital media?

censorship - banning or deleting information

In relation to Facebook and democracy there are issues regarding censorship, as some countries such as China, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, have banned social networking sites. Iranian  authorities have blocked anything on the internet which was considered to be critical against society's norms. After 2009 elecetion, the leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei banned online chatting between unrelated men and women. The ruling came after the Iranian authorities blocked Webchat, which is a popular messaging app that enables smart phone users to access online social networks. Many bloggers, online activists and technical staff have faced jailed time terms, harassment and abuse for using the internet. Ironically, many Iranians officials are actively using their Facebook and Twitter accounts such as President Hassan. Significantly, "The Internet has been a battleground in Iran between those wanting for more freedoms, and others who feel they must protect society from dangerous influence". This establishes that are issues regarding censorship as some countries do not tolerate Facebook users and therefore it is hard for some citizens to achieve their goal in having a democratic society. Notably, the government has launched "cyberpolice units" charged with tracking those who try to visit banned Internet or social media sites. However, Facebook has become restored for citizens after four years.

Articles

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/iran/5378082/Iran-bans-Facebook-ahead-of-election.html

http://english.alarabiya.net/en/life-style/2014/01/07/Iran-s-Khamenei-bans-chatting-between-unrelated-men-and-women.html

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/18/world/middleeast/facebook-and-twitter-blocked-again-in-iran-after-respite.html?_r=0

http://www.npr.org/2013/02/04/171064466/irans-leader-embraces-facebook-fellow-iranians-are-blocked

http://news.sky.com/story/1142785/iran-restores-block-on-facebook-and-twitter

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Censorship_of_Facebook#Iran

http://mashable.com/2013/09/16/twitter-facebook-iran/

http://www.hamsaweb.org/crime/4.html

11. Are there any cross-cultural factors and /or effects of globalisation involved in the impact of new technology on your case study?  E.g. the internet has been said to be ‘globalising culture’ through its promotion of the English language

It could be argued that there are effects of globalisation on Facebook, as it is not accessible in most countries. Through Facebook people can generate their own content and communicate with others, which makes this social networking site a 'global village'. Users can share information globally and voice their opinions without feeling restricted. As a result, some users have taken this as a advantage as  they have freedom to express their views. Notably, it is fair to say that Facebook is a 'globalising culture' through its promotion of the English Language, as users can quickly and effectively communicate online, without experiencing any difficulties. 

Moreover, one could argue that globalisation has had an effect on Facebook and there is an increase of cultural imperialism. This is because, on Facebook there are continuous trends which are shown through advertisements. As a result, this could suggest that certain cultures are being promoted to users, which are usually associated with western culture. Thus this would make people becoming more closer by sharing the same values and cultures. 

12. Consider theoretical perspectives in relation to the impact of new/ digital media in your case study.  E.g. Representation of certain groups as a result of changes, Marxism & Hegemony, Liberal Pluralism, colonialism, audience theories etc.

In relation to Pluralism, Facebook illustrates that individuals are no longer passive consumers of the media text as they are generating their own content and challenging the hegemonic ideologies in society. This highlights the concept of UGC, as users can actively post up their own videos without feeling restricted, which links to the Arab Spring protests. Notably, the audience have access to plural values enabling them to conform, accommodate or reject society's values. This establishes that through Facebook's news feed users do not have to believe everything which us being shown. To add, Facebook offers a wide range of products to consumers through advertisements which gives users a diversity of choice and therefore they can 'pick n mix' which lifestyle they want.

Furthermore, according to Katz and Blulmer Uses and Gratification model people may use Facebook for personal relationship and surveillance. This is because through Facebook users receive latest updates about social issues and they have the opportunity to communicate with others. As a result, this may empower users as they can interact with their friends globally without using traditional forms of media, which reinforces the idea that they are active agencies. 

NDM: Free speech will suffer if politicians get tough on offensive tweets

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/mar/26/free-speech-suffer-tough-offensive-tweets

This article focuses on the issue of individuals using social media as a tool to express their views, although there are disadvantages to this. According to this article, social media is certainly a great enabler for free speech and the quickest way to communicate. However, not many people perceive social media in a positively, as in China and Vietnam the internet is closely censored and in Saudi Arabia a simple retweet could lead a person into prison.

Notably, on social networking sites such as Twitter there has been online conflict as users have the freedom to express their views on a issue they disagree with. For instance, in the UK Caroline Criado Perez received misogynistic threats when she launched a campaign to keep a woman on a £10 note. Significantly, rape threats, hate speech and racism are common issues on social media, which made some people perceive social networking sites dangerous.To add, the Crown Prosecution Service published a set of laws in relation to social media and as a consequence, people can be prosecuted depending on what they post on Twitter. It was argued that people should be prosecuted by threats and systematic harassment in order to protect free speech.  

To conclude, it can be argued that there are advantages and disadvantages of using social media. For instance, social networking sites gives users the opportunities to express their views, communicate with others globally, receive the latest news. However, there are disadvantages of using Facebook and Twitter such as racist or sexist comments and threats, which could lead to some people in prison for inappropriate posts. In relation to new/digital media, this establishes the the development of technology has brought about postie and negative issues, which differs from traditional forms of media.

NDM: Guardian website tops 100 million monthly browsers for the first time

http://www.theguardian.com/media/2014/apr/17/guardian-website-100-million-users-abc

This article focuses on the issue of the Guardian online news content gaining 100 million browsers in a month for the first time. Significantly, stories including the search of the Malaysia Airways jet increased online traffic for most UK national newspapers. It could be suggested that this is one of the reason for the boost of online traffic for the Guardian, as the readers would want to know more about this issue. To add, the MediaGuardian had 102.3 million monthly users in March which is vital as it is there hit new record.

Furthermore, according to David Pemsel, deputy chief executive of Guardian News & Media states: ""100 million browsers is an historic landmark for everyone at the Guardian – but we won't rest on our laurels. We'll continue to innovate editorially, digitally and commercially in order to break new ground and attract still more readers to our world-class, independent, open journalism". This establishes that the company is going to continue to satisfy their readers in order to attract new audiences and maintain their success. Notably, the Guardian online is the second UK  newspaper to top 100  million monthly browsers, which establishes that the site is continually popular among readers.

To conclude, it can be argued that the Guardian website is extremely popular amongst readers because it contains a wide range of issues which would appeal to them and is free content. The Guardian targets the social demographic of middle class individuals (A/B) as they are more likely to keep up-to-date with the lasted global issues, which the website provides. The fact that people can now access the Guardian through their smartphones by downloading the app, highlights the advantages of new media as it gives individuals instant updates which would not of been provided through traditional forms of media.

NDM: BBC to extend time programmes are available on iPlayer

http://www.theguardian.com/media/2014/apr/04/bbc-extend-time-programmes-iplayer-series-stacking

This article focuses on the issue of BBC extending programmes on iPlayer for audiences. Shows including Sherlock, Doctor Who and Top Gear will be available for the audiences to watch up to 30 days after being transmitted online. This is beneficial as it gives the spectators an extra three weeks to catch up with their favourite programmes. Significantly, iPlayer had 3 billion requests for TV and radio programmes last year, especially for the BBC2 show Top Gear. Although this new approach would be beneficial, there is a disadvantage as some programmes will be available for less time.

Furthermore, iPlayer is very popular amongst the audiences and therefore the company want to carry on the success. Diane Coyle of vice chairman of BB trust states: "It is important that iPlayer continues to evolve and meet the expectations of users. We have conducted a thorough assessment of these proposals, including taking independent advice from Ofcom, and concluded that this is a sensible move that will benefit audiences and provide a clearer and more consistent catch-up service". To add, audiences wanted programmes to be available for a extended period of time and therefore BBC decided to make this change, in order to meet audiences needs. Moreover, new iPlayer has downloads, extended programmes, HD etc all contribute in making the audience satisfy.

Overall, it can be argued that BBC iPlayer will become more successful amongst the audience because of their new approach. This is because people can now watch their programmes up to 30 days, which gives them more time. It could be suggested that there would be a decline amongst the spectators watching their programmes on TV, as it would available online instead.

NDM: Facebook receives nearly 2,000 data requests from UK police

http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/apr/11/facebook-2000-data-requests-police

This article focuses on the issue of Facebook receiving more than 70% of request in 2013 in connection with criminal cases. According to this article, law enforcement agencies in the UK made thousands of requests for users data. Significantly, between July and December 2013 there were 1,906 requests submitted to Facebook  for users data as they believed it was related to criminal cases. As a result, these requests affected 2,277 different accounts, and Facebook stated that 70% of these requests saw some data produced. They revealed: "We respond to valid requests relating to criminal cases. Each and every request we receive is checked for legal sufficiency and we reject or require greater specificity on requests that are overly broad or vague," said the report". This shows that law enforcement agencies use Facebook to track users which they believe have links to criminal cases, thus highlighting that the development of new media has benefited agencies to track individuals easier. 

In addition, Facebook general counsel Collin Stretch claims: "Facebook's mission is to give people the power to share, and to make the world more open and connected. Sometimes, the laws of a country interfere with that mission, by limiting what can be shared there. Effectively, last year Apple and Google created the reform goverment surveillance scheme, which to increase transparency and accountability when it comes to online snooping by the state.

To conclude, it can be argued that the development of new/digital media has had positive impact on law enforcement agencies as they can use Facebook to track down uses for related criminal cases. It is clear that the emergence of new media has given agencies many opportunities, which would not be possible through traditional forms of  media. 

NDM: New York Times to launch new budget and top-end digital packages

http://www.theguardian.com/media/2014/mar/26/new-york-times-budget-top-end-digital-packages-nyt

This article focuses on the issue of The New York Times lauching a budget digital package for $2 a week to attract new subscribers. The aim of this digital pack is to cause a growth rate on subscribers, which the company had 700,000 a year ago. However, there has been a decrease among subscribers and therefore the company had to think of a new strategy to increase subscribers and revenue. 

In addition,  Thompson speaking at the FT Digital  Media Conference 2014 states: ""Just under a year ago we outlined our strategy to expand our digital product portfolio to continue to grow digital revenues. Our goal with this next phase of our paid products strategy is to satisfy the demand for Times journalism by giving new subscribers the ability to choose the amount of access they desire at a price point that suits them." This establishes that the company's new approach on launching a digital package for a cheap price compared to their other packages is to increase revenue and subscribers. Notably, The New York Times will now offer unlimited access to a new iPhone app which would update new streams for quick reading, and will be different from the standard news app.

Overall, it can be argued that the launch of a digital package will help attract new subscribers to The New York Times as they can engage with the new package. This shows that the development of new media has  helped some companies gain more revenue through subscription, paywalls and launching new digital packages. The fact that people can now access news through tablets, smartphones and on the website shows that news is more accessible and instant, which would not be possible through traditional forms of media.

NDM: Facebook reveals plans for solar-powered drones to boost internet access

http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/mar/28/facebook-plans-solar-powered-drones-internet-access

This article focuses on the issue of Mark Zuckerberg working on solar-powered drones to deliever and improve internet access across the world. Zuckerberg revealed details of his Connectivity Lab, a team of people, including experts from Nasa, which are working on new aerospace and communication technologies with the aim of expanding internet access worldwide. Significantly, Zukerberg stated: "In our effort to connect the whole world with Internet.org, we've been working on ways to beam internet to people from the sky. Today, we're sharing some details of the work Facebook's Connectivity Lab is doing to build drones, satellites and lasers to deliver the internet to everyone". It could be suggested that this new approach could be useful to many countries which do not have access to Facebook and therefore this would increase the connectivity globally.

Furthermore, Yael Maguire of Facebook exposed the different ways in which the company are looking to increase internet connection globally. He claims: "We're looking at a new type of plane architecture that flies at roughly 20,000 metres, because that's a point where winds are at their lowest, it's above commercial airliners, it's even above the weather, and actually it can stay in the air for months at a time. These planes are solar-powered and they sit there and circle around, and have the ability to broadcast internet down". Significantly, the project is an extension of the internet.org group which Facebook helped found in 2013 along with important technology firms such as Samsung and Nokia. The goal is to provide internet to less developed countries which cannot access Facebook.

Overall, Facebook's plans for solar-powered droans to increase internet access is a useful approach especially for less developed countries. This is because it gives citizens who do not have access to Facebook an opportunity to experience the social networking site. Arguably, if this plan works Facebook could be even successful amongst other social networking sites. This establishes that the development of technology has impacted individuals because now less developed countries will be able to access Facebook if this approach works and therefore increasing interactivity. 

Case Study: Question 4, 5 & 6

4. Is the size of the audience any different now than before the impact of new and digital media (or has the pattern of usage changed)?

It can be argued that the impact of new/digital media has changed the size of the audience and the pattern of usage, as more people are accessing Facebook daily to receive latest information or to interact with others. According to UK Facebook statistics 2014, the largest age demographic associated with Facebook is 25-34 year olds, "with just 26% of all users falling into  this age bracket". This establishes that the size of the audience has changed over the years, as now adults are interacting with Facebook as well as the young demographic. Thus this contrasts to previous years as through traditional forms of media people would of not had the freedom to interact with others globally and generate content. Although Facebook is popular, the size of the audience rapidly decreased last year. According to The Guardian, "Facebook's UK users dropped by 600,000 in December" stated by SocialBakers. Significantly, SocialBakers ranked Facebook as one of the sixth most active user base, with more that million users in December. It could be suggested that the development of new media has made a vital change in the size of the audience, as more people are accessing the social networking site daily. Facebook has made it easier for people to communicate, upload videos, generate content etc which would not have happened through traditional media. Furthermore, there is a mix of age demographic associated with Facebook such as: "25-34 year olds (26%)", "18-24 year olds (23%)" and "35-44 year olds (18%). The 2013 statistics establishes that there has been a decrease in size among the young generation, which is surprising as people would assume that teenagers would be interacting with Facebook more. This could show that there is a decrease among the young generation because they are more likely to interact with new social networking sites and therefore they would be accessing Facebook less. The bar chart below shows the estimated U.S. Facebook users since 2011 among the different age demographic.

Articles:
http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2013/jan/14/facebook-loses-uk-users-december
http://www.rosemcgrory.co.uk/2013/01/08/uk-social-media-statistics-for-2013/
http://mashable.com/2014/01/16/teens-leaving-facebook/
http://www.ibtimes.com/facebook-gets-older-demographic-report-shows-3-million-teens-left-social-network-3-years-1543092


5. Who are the primary target audience now and has this changed?  Who was it before and how do you know?  

One could argue that the primary audience for Facebook was individuals between the age demographic of 16-24 year olds, as teenagers are more likely to interact with social networking sites before  the old generation. Significantly, this age range has clearly aged over the years as the primary audience are now individuals between the age demographic of 25-34 year olds. For example, according to the 2013 Facebook UK statistics, the largest group who are using Facebook daily are 25-34 year olds (26%) followed by 18-24 year olds (23%).This could establish that younger people are losing Facebook less because of the emergence of other social networking sites such as Twitter or Instagram.

Quotes:

• “My belief is Facebook is no longer seen as on trend and it is fashionable for teens to say they no longer use it. However our data and recorded behavior show that it is still a key part of their social media experience…. the reality is there is a decline, but it is still no.1 [among teens in 30 out of 32 countries] and account ownership still remains at near full penetration.”

http://www.forbes.com/sites/haydnshaughnessy/2013/12/30/dead-and-buried-heres-whats-really-happening-with-facebook-demographics/

6. How have the audience responded to the changes?  Is there more customer choice?  Is there evidence of a more pluralistic model?  What evidence do you have to support this?

One could argue that audiences have responded to the changes of new/digtal media postively, as through social networking sites they have the freedom to interact globally and generate content.  Facebook has given consumers a wide range of choices through accessing different apps, uploading pictures/videos and changing their own personal information. Researchers at Princeton University compared Facebook to a "infections disease" and stated that "we are slowly  becoming immune  to it's attraction". The fact that people across the world are accessing Facebook establishes that this social networking site has had a impact on individuals' lives. Notably, through Facebook users can accommodate, reject, or accept the content being shown which highlights pluralist values. This establishes that users are capable of manipulating the media, instead of passively accepting the content being shown. To add, pluralists would argue that the audiences are active users as they are no longer conforming to the dominant ideologies. An example of this would be the Arab Spring, as citizens associated with this political conflict used social networking sites such as Facebook to overthrow the government's ideologies in order to achieve democracy. It could be suggested that the Arab Spring shows that the audience are responding to the changes of technology positively,  as it has given them the freedom to express their views instead of being restricted by social institutions. 

This video clip focuses on the negative and positive aspects of Facebook from different perspectives. According to the video, not many people agree with people using Facebook daily as it causes a decline in users social skills because they are spending more time interacting online, rather than socialising outdoors. However, Facebook is still popular as public figures such as "President Barack Obama used the power of Facebook during his 2008 campagine".

Articles:

http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/feb/04/facebook-10-years-social-networking-site-changed-life

Case Study: Question 3.

3. What impact has there been on how the media institution now has to produce the texts and the way in which the texts/ products are distributed and exhibited?  This should involve a detailed textual analysis of at least 3 texts to demonstrate the point.

It could be argued that there has been a impact on the ways in which media institutions products are distributed and exhibited now. The emergence of social networking sites such as Facebook has made it easier for people to connect with other globally, generate content, and find the lasted information. This clearly differs from traditional forms of media, as it would not of been easier for audiences to distribute their own content and for companies to advertise their products online. Notably, in some countries Facebook has helped to bring democracy through uploading videos of the corruption occurring and forming activist groups. As a result, this shows that texts are being distributed and exhibited differently because of the impact of new/digital media, as some citizens are using it as a political tool. Significantly, Web 2.0 has clearly giving consumers the individuals freedom to express their views and to respond in the media in different ways. This shows that consumers no longer have to reply on traditional media, as they can access information online and through social media. 

http://www.live5news.com/story/14671114/facebook-evolves

Theories:

Pluralist: The emergence of new media has offered a range of products, giving consumers across the world a diversity of choice and the opportunity to create and distribute their own media products. This shows a change in which texts are now distributed and exhibited, as consumers no longer have to reply on traditional forms of media. As a result, this establishes that the audiences are active consumers of the text and have access to pluralist views such as, accommodating, rejecting or accepting the dominant values. This shows that the audiences are in more power in terms of distributing their own texts and have more freedom to 'pick n mix' which ever point of view suits them.

Texts: 

Facebook: The emergence of Facebook has giving audiences more freedom to express their opinions and generate content. According to Phillip Howard, "new media has made a difference to countries in the Arab Spring as it has changed the way people think about their opinions". 

Articles:

1. 'News World news Saudi Arabia Saudi digital generation takes on Twitter, Youtube . . . and authorities'.

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/dec/17/saudi-arabia-digital-twitter-social-media-islam

This article focuses on how social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Youtube, has empowered citizens in Saudia Arabia as they are now actively engaging with the content. In the article it is stated that "Saudia Arabia has the world's highest Twitter and Youtube use per capital" which establishes the power of social media on individuals lives, as more people are constantly using the social network sites. Additionally, social media has giving individuals' the opportunity to challenge the authority and express their opinions about a certain issue. For instance, in Saudia Arabia millions tweets about "swap jokes, whinging about salaries, government waste and inefficiently - and corruption". Arguably, this shows the impact new and digital media has on humanity as they have the freedom to explore and actively engage with any debate or issue online

2. Twitter, Facebook and email is 'taking over family life'

http://www.live5news.com/story/14671114/facebook-evolves

Youtube: Chad Herley (Co-founder of Youtube) states: "Youtube has increase UGC" as there is "more than billion hits per year. This is significant in showing that there has been a impact on media institutions in terms of distribution and exhibition, as consumers are actively engaging with the content which differs from the past. The fact that famous singers such as Justin Bieber was first recognised through Youtube, establishes the power of social networking sites as it they have the freedom to distribute their content virally. Although Youtube has a great variety of views and values as they have control to broadcast any videos, it is likely that this could result to problems. For example, the video of the London Woolwich attack shown on Youtube caused conflict between ethnic groups. This establishes that new/digital media has impacted media institutions, as consumers are now offered a wide range of choices.

Twitter: This social networking site gained worldwide popularity in 2012 with 500 million users and 340 tweets being posted daily. Significantly, Twitter is one of the ten most visited website and therefore it has been referred to "the SMS of the internet". 

NDM - Turkey blocks use of Twitter after prime minister attacks social media site

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/mar/21/turkey-blocks-twitter-prime-minister

This article focuses on the issue of Turkey's prime minister Tayyip Erdogan blocking Twitter & Facebook as it is damaging his reputation. According to the article, Twitter users in Turkey have posted voice recordings and documents which show evidence of the corruption among Erdogan group. The prime minster's action blocking Twitter is for "protection measures". Significantly, Turkish telecoms watchdog stated that the ban was caused by citizens complaining about the social media platform violating privacy. Watchdog claimed that they asked Twitter to remove some content but they failed to do so, and therefore Twitter was blocked by courts in order to prevent victimsation of citizens in the future.

Furthermore, Erdogan made threats about blocking social media sites after the audio recordings on his alleged conversations suggested corruption was leaked online. He also favoured on banning social sites such as Facebook and Youtube in society, in order to protect the country. For example, the steps to prevent spying on the goverment would be to shutting sites down as, ""these people or institutions are [using social media] for all kinds of immorality, all kinds of espionage and spying.". Conversely, Turkish Twitter users  quickly worked around this issue by tweeting the hashtag, '#TwitterisblockedTurkey', which rapidly began to trend globally. As a result, many people began to compared Turkey to Iran and North Korea, where social media is strictly controlled and there was also calls for a protest on the streets.

Overall, it is clear that the development of new/digital media has had a impact on countries as some perceive social media as a threat to the heirachy. I disagree with the fact that Turkey has blocked Twitter as it is for citizens to express their views freely. It could be suggested that the emergence of social networking sites has changed the structure of certain countries such as Turkey, as the prime minister strongly see's it as a tool of destroying the country. This contrast to previous years as through traditional forms of media individuals would not of had a great amount of freedom to generate their own content and to voice their opinions.

NDM: Newspaper paywalls spring up, but not much is concrete

http://www.theguardian.com/media/2014/mar/16/newspaper-paywalls-spring-up-not-much-concrete?CMP=twt_gu

This article focuses on the issue on whether people should pay for the news and whether paywalls are effective. The article raises important questions such as, "Should people pay for the news?" followed by, "Does free news website access mean booming audience figures or bust?". According to Mike Darcey, (head regent of Wrapping) paywalls "are the only sensible way" in order to generate revenue. Significantly, newspapers print sales have fallen rapidly over the years, especially in Britain.This is because, readers can now access digital copies online and therefore some are subscribing to certain newspapers.

Notably, the development of new media has led to a decline in newspapers as people are accessing the news through their smartphones or online. As a result, news industry have to adapt to these changes and therefore paywalls are the key element for companies to gain profit through subscription. The article highlights that "people who want precious, specific information will find ways to pay for it somehow". Likewise, John Parton's decided that his Journal Register must increase the price of subscription.

Overall, I believe that news company should not include paywalls as news should be free for everyone to access. This is because news is vital for everyone to know information about the issues occurring in society and therefore they shouldn't have to pay to access certain newspapers. To add, some news companies are considering and have raised their subscription  price, which could cause some people not to subscribe to news due to the price.