The Role of the Internet in Mass Communication

Source: eaglerising.com

Source: videomaker.com

In today's society, the internet plays a vital role in Mass Communication.  According to Obiageli Ohiagu, "The Internet is not only a mass medium but is also a global medium with a potential to reach everyone on the globe. It is also a unique channel for mass communication which has challenged if not altered some of the fundamental and traditional concepts of a mass medium."

The role of the internet in Mass Communication

1. The internet allows one to access every form of mass communication in one place


• According to Collin, "The internet is the newest form of communication, and will likely house all future forms of communication within it. 


2. The internet allows the contents of media to reach a wider audience
• According to Ohiagu, "Through the Internet medium, the contents of the other media: radio, TV, books, magazines, and newspapers are relayed to a wider audience."
3. The internet allows for instant communication with mass communication companies 
• According to Ralph Hanson, "The Internet is unique among the mass media in allowing interpersonal communication through e-mail and instant messaging; group communication through listservs, newsgroups, and discussion boards; and mass communication through the World Wide Web."
4. The internet allows flexibility of usage
• According to Ohiagu, "What is more, the Internet has the potential to function as radio, television, newspaper or magazine depending on the users need. No other known mass medium has this unique ability of functioning as a different medium in different circumstances."
• According to Hanson, "The World Wide Web has turned the Internet into a major mass medium that provides news, entertainment, and community interaction. The Web offers a mix of content providers, including traditional media companies, new media companies offering publications available only on the Web, aggregator sites that offer help in navigating the Web, and individuals who have something they want to say."

As one can see, the internet really is an important part of mass communication.