Practical Factors Influencing News | Media | A-Level Sociology

This topic video focuses on the practical issues that can impact news coverage. The content of the news is an important element of the Media optional topic in AQA A Level Sociology.

In this video, Craig discusses the practical factors that influence news coverage and presentation.

These logistical factors impact the selection of stories as well as how they are presented to audiences. Key factors discussed include cost, as reporting on global events can be expensive for media outlets. This has led to increased use of prepackaged news stories and affiliate coverage.

Time and space limitations in print, TV, and digital formats also influence what stories are covered and how comprehensively. With 24-hour news cycles, stories must be simple and repeatable.

Audience impact is also a factor, as stories must be accessible, shareable, and continually updated to maintain engagement. Finally, media outlets rely on advertising revenue, so they select stories that will attract large audiences.

The growth of digital media has intensified competition for audiences and revenue. While production costs have dropped, traditional outlets have lost viewers and readers.

About a third of people get news exclusively online now. Traditional outlets have cut costs by going digital but still struggle to provide high quality journalism that entertains audiences in a crowded media landscape.

Key terms

• Churnalism
• Investigative journalism
• Media plurality
• Citizen journalism
• Fake news
• Infotainment
• News cycle